Sat Dec 06 17:02:16 UTC 2025: News Article:
India Reaffirms Support for Bangladesh on Maitri Divas Amidst Political Uncertainty
NEW DELHI – December 6, 2025 – India’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Pranay Verma, reiterated India’s steadfast support for Bangladesh in building an “inclusive” nation during the Maitri Divas celebrations in Dhaka today. Maitri Divas commemorates India’s recognition of Bangladesh as an independent nation on December 6, 1971, a pivotal moment occurring ten days before Bangladesh’s liberation.
Verma emphasized the importance of “interdependence and mutual benefit” in propelling the relationship between the two nations, highlighting India’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s aspirations. He also paid tribute to the sacrifices of the “Muktijoddhas,” the Bangladeshi freedom fighters who received crucial support from India during the 1971 Liberation War.
The reaffirmation of support comes at a politically sensitive time for Bangladesh. An interim government led by Prof. Mohammed Yunus is preparing for elections in February 2026. However, the government’s call for adopting the July Proclamation, which would significantly alter aspects of the 1972 Constitution, has raised concerns about the fairness and transparency of the electoral process. Furthermore, the Awami League, led by deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has been banned from political activities, and Hasina herself was recently sentenced to death by the International Crimes Tribunal.
India has publicly called for a “transparent, free, and inclusive election” in Bangladesh, underscoring its commitment to a stable and democratic future for its neighbor.
First Piper 