Indian Leaders React as Bangladesh Holds Parliamentary Elections Amid Rising Concerns

New Delhi: As Bangladesh conducts parliamentary elections after a long gap, political reactions from India have begun to pour in. Leaders from various Indian political parties have expressed concern over the prevailing situation in the neighbouring country, particularly highlighting issues related to minority safety, extremism, and democratic stability.

Several Indian leaders stated that Bangladesh’s current condition is no longer hidden from the international community, and urged that the election process should remain peaceful and transparent.

BJP Leaders Express Concern Over Minority Safety

BJP MLA Balmukundacharya extended wishes to the future government of Bangladesh but warned that the country has, in recent years, witnessed a rise in communal tension and extremist activities. He claimed that radical forces have attempted to disrupt democratic processes and even target elected leaders.

BJP MP Naresh Bansal strongly condemned the alleged atrocities against minorities in Bangladesh, stating that such developments are unacceptable. He expressed hope that the voting process remains peaceful and that the incoming government takes concrete steps to ensure the protection of minorities.

Senior BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi described the situation in Bangladesh as alarming, calling it “cruel and oppressive.” He stressed the need for a sensitive and responsible government that can address the concerns of citizens and ensure security for minority communities.

India Wants a Responsible Government in Bangladesh

BJP MLA Vikram Randhawa said that Bangladesh’s situation is “not hidden from the world,” referring to reports of targeted killings, especially of Hindus. He termed these incidents serious and demanded stronger action by the Bangladeshi authorities.

Former Jammu and Kashmir DGP S.P. Vaid stated that India expects Bangladesh to elect a sensible government that ensures the safety and rights of all citizens—whether Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, or others.

Shiv Sena Raises Infiltration Issue

Shiv Sena spokesperson Shaina NC raised concerns over alleged infiltration by Bangladeshi and Rohingya migrants. She stated that removing illegal infiltrators is a duty, as they can destabilize cities like Mumbai. She emphasized the importance of proper verification and document scrutiny.

Congress Stresses Democracy and Cultural Identity

Congress MP Sukhdev Bhagat highlighted Bangladesh’s cultural and literary legacy, referring to iconic works such as “Amar Sonar Bangla.” He expressed concern over increasing extremism, especially in minority-dominated areas, and urged that democracy should be protected and people should be able to choose better options peacefully.

Congress leader Rakesh Sinha stated that Bangladesh’s election is naturally important for India, adding that a stable and culturally rooted Bangladesh would benefit both nations.

Opposition Voices Concern Over Minority Attacks

Shiv Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha MP Priyanka Chaturvedi expressed hope that the elections would lead to a stable government that follows democratic principles and ensures equal rights. She also criticized continued attacks and lynching of minorities, particularly Hindus, and questioned India’s silence on the issue.

Left Parties Warn of Extremist Influence

CPI(M) Rajya Sabha MP V. Sivadasan warned that extremist groups such as Jamaat-e-Islami are trying to gain power in Bangladesh. He expressed confidence that democratic forces would eventually succeed and bring peace to the country.

CPI(M) MLA Mohammad Yusuf Tarigami said elections must be conducted fairly, but raised concern that the ban on the major political party Awami League could make the contest one-sided.

Rajasthan Minister Calls Anti-Hindu Ideology Unacceptable

Rajasthan Minister Jawahar Singh Bedham said there is no place for undemocratic governments anywhere in the world. He criticized the alleged promotion of anti-Hindu ideology in Bangladesh and said India has already condemned such actions while assuring protection and issuing warnings.

National Conference Calls Election Environment Unhealthy

National Conference MLA Javed Hasan Beg criticized the political environment in Bangladesh, describing it as driven by emotional and religious politics, as well as hatred-based campaigning.

A Crucial Election for the Region

With Bangladesh’s elections being watched closely across South Asia, Indian leaders across party lines have largely agreed on one point: the need for a peaceful democratic process, the emergence of a stable government, and immediate action to ensure the safety of minorities and maintain social harmony.

The outcome of the election is expected to significantly impact Bangladesh’s internal stability as well as its diplomatic and regional ties.