2024 LS Polls: India keeps close watch as several neighbours head to polls

New Delhi: The year 2024 is one of those critical years when India and several countries in its immediate and extended neighbourhood will be holding national elections, and outcomes of some of these elections may have a bearing on bilateral partnerships.

While Bangladesh heads for polls this Sunday, Bhutan will witness the second round of its parliamentary polls on Tuesday. Pakistan is expected to hold national polls in February and Sri Lanka may witness presidential polls later this year.


Southeast Asia's biggest state and India's maritime neighbour, Indonesia will hold the first round of presidential polls in February. If there is no clear winner in the first round, the second round will kick in and the new government will take over later in the year.

Indonesia President Joko Widodo, known as Jokowi, finishes his two-term Presidency this year. Jokowi's son is a vice-presidential candidate and running mate of incumbent defence minister Prabowo Subianto who, according to surveys, is poised to win the presidential polls. Subianto is votary of strong ties with India.

In Western Indian Ocean, India's close security partner for decades, Mauritius will hold elections to elect the next government this year. Mauritius is expected to maintain continuity vis a vis India after the elections.

Among the P5 (permanent members of the UN Security Council) states, both the USA and Russia are heading to presidential polls this year.

In Africa, the continent's most important state, South Africa heads to polls this year. In Central America, Mexico, one of India's key trade partners in that region, will hold elections in 2024.

Focus on South Asia

India has huge stakes in both Bangladesh and Bhutan, and New Delhi is closely monitoring elections in these two neighbouring states.

While in Bhutan pro-India Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay is leading the race, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, too, is expected to hold on to power for the fourth straight term in what would work to New Delhi's advantage in the neighbourhood where China is making huge efforts to make inroads.

India has stood by the Hasina government notwithstanding pressure from the West, which accused the incumbent government of stifling democracy. In Pakistan, the likely return of Nawaz Sharif as the prime minister may result in moves aimed at opening up doors with India. However, the all-powerful army there may not allow Sharif the opportunity to improve ties with South Asia's biggest economy.

Down south, Sri Lanka may also witness presidential polls this year. It is uncertain if incumbent Ranil Wickremasinghe will contest the polls or not.