The Jatiya Chhatra Students’ Union (JAKSU) is grappling with a major shortage of candidates at the hall-level parliamentary elections, with the Election Commission unable to find nominees for 63 positions. Over 100 posts are expected to be filled without any competition.

Most of the unfilled positions are in women’s halls, with candidates citing fears of cyberbullying as a key reason for low participation. Amid concerns over voter enthusiasm, the Election Commission’s Secretary has stated that overall turnout will not necessarily be impacted by the shortage of candidates.

Approximately 12,000 students are eligible to vote in the JAKSU elections. Of the 315 posts across 21 halls, 165 will see no contest. Among female students, five vice-presidential positions in 10 residential halls remain uncontested, while at least six posts across 11 male halls lack multiple candidates. Allegations have also emerged of violations of election codes, including distribution of gifts to voters. AGS candidate Sohagi Samia has reportedly been a victim of cyberbullying.