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India has renewed its commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s journey towards an inclusive and democratic future, as the two countries marked Maitri Divas in Dhaka on Saturday. The day commemorates India’s recognition of Bangladesh as an independent nation on December 6, 1971, ten days before its final liberation.
Addressing the event, India’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Pranay Verma, reflected on the deep historical ties that continue to shape the partnership between the two neighbours. He described the date as exceptional, saying, “6th of December 1971 stands out as a particularly special date.”
He recalled that India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, became the first country in the world to grant diplomatic recognition to Bangladesh even as the Liberation War was still underway. Mr Verma said what made the day remarkable was that “India’s recognition of Bangladesh came 10 days before Bangladesh actually got liberated.”
Bangladesh is currently under the interim government led by Prof Mohammed Yunus, which has announced that national elections will be held in February 2026. Campaigning has begun, yet uncertainties remain due to the proposed July Proclamation, a new framework that could significantly alter key parts of the 1972 Constitution.
The political atmosphere has grown tense following the ban on former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League from political activities, and the death sentence handed to her by the International Crimes Tribunal on November 17.
India has urged Bangladesh to ensure that the forthcoming election is conducted in a “transparent, free and inclusive” manner, underlining the importance of democratic legitimacy during a sensitive phase for the country.
