National Citizen Party (NCP) spokesperson Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan claimed that government officials are openly seeking votes for the opposition’s paddy sheaf symbol, describing it as a threat to democracy. Speaking at an NCP election road meeting on Tuesday at Singra bus stand in Natore, he alleged that the Election Commission and administration are showing bias as the election approaches. He cited a social media video showing a presiding officer in Panchagarh asking for votes for the paddy sheaf.

Bhuiyan said that complaints from the 11-party alliance to the Election Commission are ignored, while complaints from the BNP receive immediate action. He warned that attempts to use the administration to stage another rigged election would not succeed, saying the people would defend their voting rights even at the cost of their lives. Other NCP leaders, including Monira Sharmin and Tariqul Islam, echoed concerns about administrative bias and pledged to protect polling centers.

The event was part of the NCP’s nationwide election campaign, attended by leaders from the 11-party alliance supporting Shapla Koli symbol candidate S.M. Jargis Kadir in Natore-3 constituency.