Sheikh Hasina’s Gratitude to India
Message of Gratitude: Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina expressed deep gratitude to India on Sunday, thanking the country for its unwavering support during the 1971 liberation war against Pakistan and providing shelter to her family in the aftermath of the tragic events in 1975.
Historical Context: The 1971 Indo-Pak war unfolded against the backdrop of tensions between West Pakistan and the Bengali-majority East Pakistan. The Pakistan Army’s Operation Searchlight on March 25, 1971, led to widespread human rights violations. India, responding with initial strikes, eventually engaged in a full-scale invasion, leading to the creation of Bangladesh on December 16, 1971.
Hasina’s Personal Connection: Reflecting on India’s crucial role, Hasina stated, “After 1975, when we lost our whole family…they gave us shelter.” The year 1975 marked a tragic turning point for her family, with the assassination of her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding leader of Bangladesh.
Election Day Challenges: As Bangladeshis went to the polls, concerns over the legitimacy of the elections emerged. With the main opposition party boycotting, questions arose about the fairness of the electoral process, raising doubts about the outcome’s credibility.
Challenges and Achievements: Despite a month-long campaign marked by street protests and controversies, Prime Minister Hasina’s administration has overseen remarkable economic growth, lifting millions out of poverty. However, achievements have been overshadowed by concerns of authoritarianism.
Voter Turnout and Opposition’s Stance: With many of Hasina’s rivals imprisoned, a decline in voter turnout is anticipated. The main opposition party, Bangladesh Nationalist Party, boycotted the elections, demanding a caretaker government to oversee the poll, leading to street clashes and a contentious political atmosphere.
Counting and Results: Polling centers opened at 8 am, with results expected late Sunday or early Monday. Election officials will count the ballots for 300 seats in the 350-member parliament, involving around 120 million eligible voters.
Controversial Campaign Tactics: In the run-up to the elections, social media circulated videos featuring ruling party leaders urging voters to participate or risk losing government benefits. The Election Commission served notices to some politicians involved in such practices.
Re-reported from the article originally published in The Hindustan Times
