“We Are Voting for Shapla Kali, Where Is Our Security?” — Sarjis Faces Backlash From Locals After Election Loss

❐ Local correspondent

Sarjis Alam, the chief organizer of the northern region of the National Citizens Party (NCP) and candidate of the 11-party alliance, who contested the 13th National Parliament election (February 12, 2026) under the Shapla Kali symbol in the Panchagarh-1 constituency, was defeated by BNP candidate Barrister Muhammad Naushad Jamir.

Since then, Sargis Alam has been facing criticism from the locals.

After the election, Sarjis Alam accepted the results, congratulated the winning candidate and promised good work in the future. However, he posted on Facebook and claimed that “Shapla Koli did not lose the vote; she was defeated through planned manipulation by the administration, BNP and the Deep State.”

He also demanded a recount of votes and alleged irregularities at some centers.

The defeat has sparked frustration and discontent among his supporters in the local area of ​​Panchagarh. Workers and supporters are complaining that the promises made during the election campaign—security, assistance, future security—are not being fulfilled.

Some reports mention that a mosque imam was fired for voting for Shapla Koli. In addition, there have been allegations of attacks on the homes and businesses of NCP leaders and activists in the post-election period, for which BNP leaders and activists are being blamed.

During the interim government, Sargis was like a victorious general, who was highly critical of various leaders and politicians, and who was the instigator of movements, occupations, and arson—from there, he has now moved to the position of a defeated general, largely silent and plagued by questions.

Local activists are raising the question: “We are electing Shapla Kali, where is our security?” Political analysts believe that Sarjis’ political inexperience, overconfidence, and ties to alliances (including Jamaat) have lost the support of a section of local voters.

This incident is being seen as a difficult challenge for the new party NCP and leaders emerging from the student movement to transition into politics.