The nomination paper of Dr Tasnim Jara, an independent candidate and former leader of the NCP, has been cancelled in the Dhaka-9 parliamentary constituency. The decision was announced by the Dhaka District Returning Officer at around 11:30 am on Saturday.

Earlier, on December 29, Dr Jara submitted her nomination paper in person at the Sabujbagh Thana Election Office in the capital. As an independent candidate, she was required to submit supporting signatures from at least one percent of the total voters in her constituency.

Reacting to the cancellation, Dr Tasnim Jara said that the authorities rejected her nomination due to issues related to voters’ signatures. “I will appeal to the Election Commission. I hope my nomination will be reinstated,” she said.

According to her affidavit, Dr Tasnim Jara is a medical doctor by profession. Her annual income from service amounts to Tk 713,333. In addition, she has an overseas income of 3,200 British pounds. She has paid Tk 34,057 as income tax.

Her asset declaration shows that she owns no house, flat, agricultural land or non-agricultural land. However, she possesses jewellery worth Tk 250,000. She has Tk 10,019 deposited in her bank account and Tk 1.6 million in cash. She also holds 2,270 British pounds.

The affidavit further states that Dr Jara has no criminal cases, loans, liabilities or outstanding government dues against her. Information regarding her husband’s assets has also been disclosed. Her husband, Khaled Saifullah, has Tk 1.5 million in cash and 6,000 British pounds. His overseas income is listed as 39,800 British pounds.

According to her personal details, Dr Tasnim Jara was born on October 7, 1994. She holds an MSc degree. Her father’s name is Fakhrul Hasan and her mother’s name is Amena Akhtar Dewan. She currently resides in the Khilgaon Chowdhurypara area of Dhaka.