NCP leader Sarjis Alam has accused the Election Commission of succumbing to pressure in denying his party the lotus symbol despite no legal grounds. “The commission is using baseless excuses, claiming the lotus is a national emblem, which it is not in legal terms. Other symbols with national relevance have already been allotted to parties,” he argued. Sarjis said his party had applied months ago, but the commission avoided updating its list. “This clearly shows the decision was made under pressure,” he alleged. Turning to the ruling party, he claimed: “Awami League is bringing back billions siphoned abroad just to hire people for occasional rallies. These are not signs of real strength. The League’s political chapter is over.”