Nasiruddin Patwari, chief coordinator of the National Citizens Party (NCP) and candidate for Dhaka-8 under the Jamaat-led 10-party alliance, has accused the Election Commission (EC) of failing to issue a show-cause notice to BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman despite what he described as a direct violation of the electoral code of conduct. Speaking to reporters on Wednesday after receiving his election symbol at the Dhaka Divisional Commissioner’s office, Patwari alleged that Rahman recently visited the Korail slum and promised to build flats for residents, which he said breached election laws.

Patwari claimed the EC was applying double standards, saying other candidates such as Nahid Islam had been show-caused for lesser actions while Rahman faced no consequences. He further alleged that the administration and BNP were working together, undermining the fairness of the Dhaka-8 election. Patwari also criticized the media for not covering such irregularities, claiming that many outlets were under political influence.

He warned that the EC’s inaction and perceived bias could lead to a repeat of past controversial commissions, raising concerns about the credibility of the upcoming election.