‘Shapla’ symbol cannot be allocated: EC

Election Commissioner Anwarul Islam has stated that, under the constitutional laws and existing regulations, it is not possible to allocate the ‘Shapla’ (water lily) symbol to any political party, as it is not included in the approved list of election symbols.

He made the remarks while speaking to journalists on Sunday morning, October 19, after attending a police training session aimed at enhancing efficiency in election duties at Sylhet Police Lines.

Anwarul Islam said, “The Election Commission can only allocate symbols that are listed in the approved schedule. As a constitutional body, the Commission cannot act beyond the law. Therefore, the symbol requested by the NCP cannot be legally approved.”

Regarding the election schedule, he said there is no situation that would prevent the polls from being held in February. “We expect the election to take place before Ramadan,” he added.

He further mentioned that all law enforcement agencies are fully prepared to ensure a free and fair election. “Law and order will be maintained, and no controversial individuals will be assigned election duties,” he assured.

In response to a question about the proportional representation (PR) system, the Election Commissioner said, “The election method is a political matter, and I have no comment on it.”

The event was attended by Sylhet Metropolitan Police Commissioner Abdul Quddus Chowdhury, Additional Commissioner Md Masud Rana, District Police Superintendent Md Mahbubur Rahman, and CTTSB (DC) Afzal Hossain, among other senior officials.