Explained: Bangladesh set to vote on Feb 12. What’s at stake for India?

Feb 10, 2026 | 20:32 IST

BNP rally in Dhaka

While many voters hope the election will restore law and order, protect civil liberties and bring accountable leadership, unease persists. Some fear political instability, the marginalisation of women and minorities, and the rise of Islamists in a secular country

Bangladesh will vote on February 12 amid its most volatile political transition in decades. This is the South Asian nation’s first parliamentary election after the 2024 student-led uprising that ended Sheikh Hasina’s 15-year rule.
Once New Delhi’s closest regional ally, Hasina is now living in exile in India — a development that continues to inflame public anger and deepen political polarisation at home.

TOI

TOI

Explained: Bangladesh set to vote on Feb 12. What’s at stake for India?

While many voters hope the election will restore law and order, protect civil liberties and bring accountable leadership, unease persists. Some fear political instability, the marginalisation of women and minorities, and the rise of Islamists in a secular country

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TOI

Explained: Bangladesh set to vote on Feb 12. What’s at stake for India?

While many voters hope the election will restore law and order, protect civil liberties and bring accountable leadership, unease persists. Some fear political instability, the marginalisation of women and minorities, and the rise of Islamists in a secular country

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