Three middle-aged visually impaired men made the journey across districts to exercise their voting rights, emphasizing their commitment to fulfilling their civic responsibilities and being acknowledged as equal members of society. Mohammad Jewel, Monir Hossain, and Mohammad Jasim, all blind from birth or early childhood due to various circumstances, engage in selling goods on public transportation to sustain themselves.
Despite the challenges they face in their daily lives, the trio managed to reach their designated polling stations in Narayanganj to cast their votes. Monir and Jewel were observed leaving the Haji Shamsuddin High School polling center in Siddhirganj, while Jasim voted at a polling station in Mahmudpur, Fatullah around midday.
Although they presently reside with their families in rented accommodations in different areas of the capital, they remain registered voters in Narayanganj. Each man spent approximately Tk 200 for transportation to participate in the voting process, which they deemed a worthwhile expense.
Assisted by polling officials, the visually impaired men successfully cast their votes without encountering any difficulties or confusion. Monir Hossain expressed his satisfaction with the voting experience, highlighting the sense of joy and fulfillment in participating in the democratic process. He also mentioned the nostalgic feeling of reconnecting with acquaintances in Narayanganj during the voting day.
Inspired by the enthusiasm of fellow citizens traveling to their respective hometowns to vote, Jewel decided to join in and cast his ballot. Jasim shared a similar sentiment, emphasizing the happiness and peace he felt in being able to vote despite the challenges they face as individuals with disabilities.
Looking beyond the voting process, the trio expressed their expectations for the incoming government to provide better support for people with disabilities. They emphasized the need for improved access to education for their children, including waived tuition fees, and a more substantial disability allowance that adequately covers living expenses.
Expressing hope for equal treatment and financial assistance from the new government, the visually impaired men concluded their voting journey with the assistance of a local woman, boarding a battery-run rickshaw for their return home.