Will Constitutional Democracy Be Restored in Bangladesh Following BNP's Win?
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Key Takeaways
New Delhi, Feb 13 (NationPress) Political figures from various Indian parties shared their reactions to the remarkable victory of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in the 13th parliamentary elections, expressing optimism for the revival of democracy, regional stability, and enhanced bilateral relations.
In an interview with IANS, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi commented, “His mother has led Bangladesh and emerged victorious in elections. Drawing from her record, he is expected to revive democracy. Bangladesh has experienced turmoil, marked by protests, misuse of democratic principles, and internal destabilization. Undesirable influences from nations like Pakistan should be countered, leading to an improvement in relations with India, which have also soured. Minorities have faced challenges, and we hope they will receive fair treatment, with the restoration of constitutional democracy. I wish him all the best.”
Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC remarked, “In any democratic system, victories and defeats are commonplace. However, with the BNP's victory, the esteemed Prime Minister has offered congratulations to its leadership. On behalf of our leader, Eknath Shinde, we aspire for a progressive, democratic, and inclusive Bangladesh, ensuring national security and halting infiltration for mutual development.”
BJP spokesperson Pratul Shah Deo highlighted India's continuous support for the return of democracy wherever it occurs.
Bihar Minister Dilip Jaiswal stated, “The results of the Bangladesh election are in. The citizens of Bangladesh have firmly responded to extremism. The narrative circulating globally that the situation in Bangladesh is deteriorating has been disproven.”
The BNP and its coalition announced a significant win in the elections, as reported by local media citing unofficial results. The BNP-led coalition secured 210 seats, surpassing the majority threshold and paving the way for a new government formation.
According to sources from the party, Bangladeshi newspaper Jugantor reported that BNP chairman Tarique Rahman is likely to assume the role of Prime Minister, marking the return of a male Prime Minister in Bangladesh after nearly 35 years. The BNP was on track for a decisive landslide victory, with Jamaat-e-Islami expected to come in a distant second.
Previously, Tarique expressed his confidence after casting his vote, declaring he was “100 percent hopeful” of victory.
He took over leadership of the BNP following the death of his mother, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, last December. Tarique is also the son of former President Ziaur Rahman, who founded the BNP. Celebrations erupted throughout Bangladesh as the results came in, with Tarique ready to lead the nation as Prime Minister.