Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina conveyed her appreciation to India on Sunday, acknowledging the pivotal support received during the 1971 liberation war against Pakistan. She expressed gratitude for India’s role in providing shelter to her family in 1975, a significant moment when several family members lost their lives.
Hasina’s message to India coincided with the commencement of general elections in Bangladesh, where she is poised to secure a fourth consecutive term, with the main opposition party opting not to participate.
Addressing reporters, Sheikh Hasina said, “You are most welcome. We are very lucky…India is our trusted friend. During our 1971 liberation war, they supported us…After 1975, when we lost our whole family…they gave us shelter. So our best wishes to the people of India.”
The relationship between India and Bangladesh during the 1971 war played a crucial role in the creation of Bangladesh. India supported East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) against the oppression of West Pakistan, leading to the liberation of Bangladesh.
As Bangladeshis cast their votes, the election has been marked by street protests, the imprisonment of Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus, and viral videos urging voters to participate. Sheikh Hasina’s leadership, overseeing economic growth and poverty reduction, is weighed against concerns of increasing authoritarianism.
Boycotts by the main opposition party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, have added tension to the electoral process, resulting in street clashes between opposing groups.
The Election Commission will commence ballot counting after polls close, with results expected late Sunday or early Monday. Approximately 120 million people are eligible to vote for 300 out of 350 seats in parliament.
The ongoing political developments in Bangladesh will undoubtedly impact the regional dynamics and relations with neighboring countries.
