A rare display of camaraderie among rival candidates drew attention in the Narsingdi-1 (Sadar) constituency yesterday morning, as three contestants were seen chatting and exchanging light-hearted remarks while visiting polling centres.

BNP candidate Khairul Kabir Khokon, contesting with the sheaf of paddy symbol, Ibrahim Bhuiyan of the scales symbol, and Gonoodhikar Parishad candidate Advocate Shirin Akhter met at the Rajadi High School field in Narsingdi Sadar around 9:30am.

Voters and campaign workers present at the venue witnessed the exchange.

Despite being electoral opponents, the three greeted each other warmly and shared jokes, creating a relaxed atmosphere amid an otherwise competitive race.

At one point, one of them remarked, “We are on the side of a people’s uprising,” prompting laughter from those around. Many onlookers were seen capturing the moment on their mobile phones.

Voters said such gestures added to the festive mood of the election and sent a positive message about political tolerance.

Shirin Akhter said, “We stand for a people’s uprising. We have struggled together in movements before; there is no personal conflict among us.”

Khairul Kabir Khokon, president of Narsingdi district BNP, said, “If any of my activists get into trouble with others, inform me immediately and I will take action. Elections are a festival -- let me know quickly if there are any problems.”

Md Ibrahim Bhuiyan said voting was taking place in a festive spirit.

“Beyond being candidates, the three of us are good neighbours. We have competition, but no hostility. Whether we win or lose, we all win. We live side by side in the same community,” he added.

Observers said such public displays of courtesy could help foster a culture of democratic coexistence in the constituency.