'Democracy wins ... will bring back rule of the law' Pradhan seeks to counter Rahul, says no compromise on farmers' interests

UNION Minister for Education Dharmendra Pradhan on Friday stressed that the government will never compromise on the interests of farmers.

- S LALITHA @ New Delhi

ALONGSIDE the parliamentary vote, a referendum was held in which 68.1% voted in favour of proposed reforms, while 31.9% voted against. The approval empowers parliament to reform the Constitution and restructure the poll process. BNP had earlier outlined proposals in its July Declaration, and attention now turns to how the party will implement them.

The Election Commission reported on Friday morning that 59.44% of registered voters voted. Voting was held peacefully across the country.

Observers noted that turnout appeared stronger on polling day morning but declined later. The reported turnout of nearly 60% has drawn some scrutiny, particularly as many Awami League supporters and others abstained. In comparison, the turnout stood at 54% in 1991 and 75% in 1996.

Tarique Rahman, son of former president Ziaur Rahman and former PM Khaleda Zia, is set to assume the premiership after the BNP forms the government.