JAHANGIRNAGAR UNIVERSITY, Feb 12, 2026 (BSS) - Jahangirnagar University (JU) Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Mohammad Kamrul Ahsan today termed the national parliamentary election as a grand festival of democracy, saying that exercising adult franchise is as joyful and honourable as celebrating Eid. The VC made the remarks after casting his vote in the 13th national parliamentary election at around 11:30 am at the JU School and  College centre on the campus. "Today's national parliamentary election is not merely a constitutional process; it is a grand festival of practising our democratic rights. Exercising adult franchise is, to me, as joyful and dignified as celebrating Eid," he said. He noted that the struggle to establish democracy in the country has never been easy. Referring to the July mass uprising, he said those who were martyred and injured made immense sacrifices, and through their sacrifice the nation regained the opportunity to exercise its voting rights. "Their sacrifice is a sacred trust for us," he added. JU VC said the election has also placed a responsibility on citizens to fulfil the aspirations of the martyrs, consolidate democracy and establish an accountable state system.  "If we cast our votes consciously, independently and responsibly, only then will their sacrifices be meaningful," he said. Urging all citizens, especially the young generation, to participate in the election in a peaceful and responsible manner, he said democracy is not just a word but a practice, a culture and a commitment. He called upon voters to strengthen democracy through active participation in the electoral process and work collectively towards building a just, participatory and prosperous Bangladesh.