Putul’s doorstep campaign in Natore-1

Farzana Sharmin Putul is taking a personal approach to campaigning in Natore-1 ahead of the February 12 parliamentary election, presenting herself to voters not as a traditional political figure but as someone they can relate to and confide in.

A BNP-nominated candidate for the Natore-1 constituency, Putul is a Supreme Court lawyer and the daughter of late BNP minister Fazlur Rahman Patal. 

The sole female BNP nominee in the Rajshahi division, Putul is contesting the Natore-1 seat for the first time. Her campaign, however, faces a significant hurdle from a rebel candidate, even as she continues canvassing with a small group of associates.

The Daily Star followed her campaign from noon to evening on Wednesday as she visited Balitita Islampur, Ulipara, Sontoshpur and Ramanandapur. 

In each village, she interacted with residents and sought votes for the sheaf of paddy symbol, promising development in what she described as a long-neglected area.

Arriving in Balitita Islampur by car, Putul proceeded on foot through dilapidated rural roads. She appeared particularly well-received by women and children. Beyond routine campaign exchanges, she entered homes and listened to personal accounts of hardship. 

A 70-year-old widow from Ulipur village said no elected representative had previously listened to her problems. “I have no one to turn to, and I do not even have a social allowance card. For the first time, I am able to share my struggles,” she said.

Speaking to The Daily Star, Putul said many elderly residents had raised similar concerns about the absence of social safety net cards. She said she had assured them of working to address the issue if elected.

Natore-1, which has around 3.68 lakh voters, continues to grapple with long-standing problems, including poor communication infrastructure in rural and char areas. The lack of industrial development has also limited employment opportunities for local residents.

Putul said that if elected, she would prioritise infrastructure development in remote areas, including canal excavation for irrigation and improved drainage to address waterlogging. 

She also pledged to work towards industrial development to create jobs for the local workforce.

As a woman campaigning in a male-dominated political environment, Putul said she has faced verbal harassment. Recently, a local leader backing a rival candidate was expelled from the BNP for making derogatory remarks about her.

Putul acknowledged that she has been subjected to bullying during the campaign but said she remains undeterred. She said criticism is inevitable in public life and that she is focused on moving forward.

The Natore-1 race has drawn nine candidates. Putul’s main challenger is Taiful Islam Tipu, a former central BNP leader contesting the seat as an independent candidate. With several pro-BNP leaders reportedly supporting his campaign, the contest remains a difficult one for the first-time candidate.