New Delhi, May 13 (UNI) India today termed the ban on the Awami League a concerning development, and also voiced concern at the curtailment of democratic freedoms and the shrinking political space in Bangladesh, under the Mohd Yunus-led Interim Government.

The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, addressing a question on the ban on the Awami League’s activities by the Interim Government of Bangladesh, said:

“The ban on the Awami League without due process is a concerning development. As a democracy, India is naturally concerned at curtailment of democratic freedoms and shrinking political space.

“We strongly support the early holding of free, fair and inclusive elections in Bangladesh.”

Notably, the army backed-Interim Government has issued a gazette notification banning all activities of the Bangladesh Awami League and its affiliated organisations under the Anti-Terrorism Act until the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) completes the trial of the party’s leaders and activists.

Meanwhile, reacting to India's remarks, Chief Advisor’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam said that elections are entirely an internal matter of Bangladesh and urged all parties to respect the sovereign will of its people regarding electoral issues.

"We urge everyone to respect the sovereign will of our people in matters relating to elections," he said in response to a question.

He added: "As I have already mentioned, banning this party’s activities is essential to protect national security and sovereignty, ensure the safety of July uprising activists, and safeguard plaintiffs and witnesses of the International Crimes Tribunal", UNB reported.

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