Alright, First of all ... Its NOT a rumor.
Another guys called CIC and they told him that they recived a short notice from NS which suggested that all CEC applicantions after Oct 20th will be returned regardless of being charged or not. and Eventually they'll convey this to all the othr CIC agents as well.
I know, it's very frustrationg for me too! my BOWP was dependant on that, I'm on the verge of loosing my job, my status, everything!!
But, we have to strong ! and apply for EE before even that opportunity is missed by us.