Independent candidate for the Dhaka-9 constituency, Tasnim Jara, has said she never expected such an overwhelming response from people after stepping into election campaigning.

She made the remarks on Monday afternoon while speaking to journalists during her campaign activities in the Madartek area of Sabujbagh in the capital.

Tasnim Jara said the public reaction has been extraordinary and deeply meaningful for her. “I truly did not imagine I would receive this level of warmth and support,” she said, adding that her team has been visiting streets and marketplaces to engage directly with residents and listen to them closely.

She noted that she has been spending long hours—from morning until night—walking through neighborhoods to hear firsthand about people’s problems and their expectations from an elected representative. According to her, residents have been speaking openly, offering encouragement, and even elders have come forward to bless her. “Being able to connect with people at such a personal level has been an invaluable experience for me,” she said.

Speaking about her constituency, Tasnim Jara described Dhaka-9 as a densely populated and strategically important area of the city. She pointed out that despite regularly paying taxes and utility bills, residents are deprived of basic civic services. Gas shortages remain one of the most pressing issues, as supply is often unavailable for most of the day despite payments being made. Poor road conditions, waterlogging, and the frequent spread of diseases such as dengue and chikungunya are also persistent concerns.

She further said that Mugda Medical College Hospital is the only government hospital serving the area’s large population, yet it struggles with mismanagement and inadequate services. Tasnim Jara stated that clear and practical solutions to these problems have been outlined in her election manifesto, which she said has been well received by voters.

Regarding public sentiment about the election, she said enthusiasm among voters is evident. People, she noted, want a fair and credible election so they can safely cast their votes for candidates of their choice.

Tasnim Jara also said she has been making a conscious effort to follow the Election Commission’s code of conduct since the beginning of her campaign.