MEA Says India Stands For Free And Inclusive Elections As Bangladesh Votes

India on Thursday reiterated its official position regarding the ongoing parliamentary elections in Bangladesh, emphasising that it supports a democratic process that is free, fair, inclusive and credible. The statement came from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) as voting and counting took place in Bangladesh’s 13th national polls on Feb. 12, 2026.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said New Delhi would await the final outcome before commenting on future bilateral issues or the mandate that emerges. “We stand for a free, fair, inclusive and credible election in Bangladesh,” he said, stressing that India’s position is rooted in support for democratic norms rather than intervention.

Despite receiving an official invitation from Dhaka to send election observers, India opted not to deploy its own monitoring teams, the MEA confirmed. According to the spokesperson, New Delhi chose this approach to ensure that electoral credibility rests primarily with the Bangladeshi people and the wider international community rather than with a neighbouring country’s endorsement.

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India’s stance underscores its strategic interest in a stable and inclusive democratic process in its eastern neighbour, particularly given the heightened regional focus on electoral legitimacy and popular mandate. In recent weeks, Dhaka has seen intensified political activity as major parties, including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), contest votes in a contest marked by the absence or marginalisation of some traditional rivals.

New Delhi’s comments also reflect a broader diplomatic calculus: while affirming democratic values, India is signalling its willingness to engage with whichever government is formed after the polls conclude. Indian officials have avoided premature judgements, indicating that the focus is on outcomes and post-electoral cooperation rather than immediate endorsements.

The Indian position comes amid international scrutiny of Bangladesh’s electoral environment, with contrasting views emerging domestically from parties critical of the process. As the vote count continues, India’s reaffirmation of support for inclusive elections aims to align New Delhi with global expectations for transparent democratic procedures in South Asia’s most densely populated nation.

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