The U.S. State Department has acknowledged that it is aware of the interim government’s decision to ban all political activities of the Awami League in Bangladesh until ongoing legal proceedings are concluded. In a press briefing on Tuesday (May 13), Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott emphasized that the United States supports democratic processes and the right to freedom of expression but does not endorse any specific political party in Bangladesh. He stated that the U.S. believes in fair and legal treatment for all individuals and urges all countries, including Bangladesh, to uphold freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly, and association.

Meanwhile, India has officially expressed concern over the ban. During a regular press briefing in New Delhi, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that imposing such restrictions without following a proper process is alarming. He further noted that India, as a democratic nation, is naturally concerned about the shrinking political space and the curtailing of democratic freedoms in Bangladesh. Jaiswal reiterated India’s call for a swift, free, fair, and inclusive election in the country.

The Bangladeshi government recently issued an official notification banning all activities of the Awami League and its associated bodies, citing substantial evidence of their involvement in criminal activities. The order, signed by the Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs, was issued Monday afternoon (May 12) under the President’s directive. Following this, the Election Commission also suspended the party’s official registration later that night.