New Delhi buzzes with reactions from political leaders as Bangladesh heads to the polls. The parliamentary elections have sparked widespread debate in India, with figures from various parties expressing deep concerns over the democratic process, rising communal tensions, and the precarious safety of minorities, particularly Hindus.
BJP legislator Balmukundacharya extended cautious goodwill to whichever government emerges victorious. ‘Future administrations in Bangladesh deserve our best wishes,’ he stated, ‘but we cannot ignore the surge in communal and extremist activities in recent years. Jihadist forces have repeatedly targeted democratic institutions, including attempts on the Prime Minister and President.’
Echoing these sentiments, BJP MP Naresh Bansal highlighted the alarming atrocities against minority communities. ‘Such oppression is unacceptable,’ he asserted. ‘We hope today’s voting proceeds peacefully, and the new leadership prioritizes halting these attacks.’
BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi painted a grim picture of Bangladesh’s landscape, likening it to a ‘jungle ruled by brutal, oppressive forces.’ He called for a sensitive government attuned to public anxieties, especially ensuring minority protection—a leadership India yearns to see.
The chorus of worry continued with BJP MLA Vikram Randhawa pointing to targeted killings, especially of Hindus, as a glaring crisis impossible to overlook. Former J&K DGP SP Vaid urged for a sensible regime that safeguards every citizen, regardless of faith—Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, or otherwise.
Shiv Sena spokesperson Shaina NC shifted focus to infiltration issues, stressing the need to deport Bangladeshi and Rohingya intruders destabilizing cities like Mumbai. ‘Public spaces belong to citizens, not verified foreigners encroachments,’ she emphasized, advocating thorough documentation checks.
Congress MP Sukhdev Bhagat reminisced about Bangladesh’s rich literary heritage, like ‘Amar Sonar Bangla,’ contrasting it with the current radicalization in minority areas. He advocated for sustained democracy allowing peaceful choice.
Congress leader Rakesh Sinha underscored the elections’ significance for India, predicting mutual benefits if Bangladesh upholds cultural and civilizational values. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi hoped for a stable government upholding democratic principles and equal rights, lamenting unchecked violence against minorities, including Hindus.
CPI(M) Rajya Sabha member V. Sivadasan drew parallels between Islamist groups like Jamaat-e-Islami and RSS, optimistic about democratic forces prevailing for peace. Rajasthan Minister Jawar Singh Bedham condemned anti-Hindu ideologies, praising India’s firm stance.
NC MLA Javed Hasan Beg decried the emotive, hate-driven politics, while CPI(M) MLA Mohammad Yusuf Tarigami supported elections despite Awami League curbs, insisting on fair play.
As votes are cast, India’s leaders unite in hoping for a Bangladesh that prioritizes democracy, peace, and minority rights—key to regional stability.