New Delhi: India on Friday backed free, fair and inclusive polls in Myanmar and underscored the participation of all political stakeholders. Speaking at a press briefing, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson said India supports a transition to democracy in the country and will continue to back efforts that promote a return to normalcy.

Responding to a question on the credibility of the electoral process in the country being questioned within Myanmar, the MEA spokesperson said, "India supports transition to democracy in Myanmar... And it is of the view that participation of all stakeholders is important for the credibility of the electoral exercise that is to happen there."

The remarks come amid Myanmar’s military junta preparing a three-phase election, with the first round scheduled for December 28, 2025, followed by subsequent phases on January 11 and January 25, 2026.

The polls follow years of political turmoil since the military, or Tatmadaw, seized power on February 1, 2021, nullifying the results of the 2020 general election and imposing strict restrictions on political parties, including those that had won majorities in the previous election.

"The electoral exercise needs to be free, fair and inclusive. India will continue to support all efforts that advance peace, dialogue and return to normalcy in the country," the MEA spokesperson said on December 8.

The MEA also reaffirmed India’s commitment to relations with Myanmar, noting that the government is actively engaged in providing assistance to address the humanitarian challenges its people face.

On the humanitarian situation in Myanmar, the MEA spokesperson also said, "We have warm ties with MVpanmar. When the last earthquake happened, we were one of the first responders. We sent in a large team to provide relief, including medical support, and set up a temporary hospital. Subsequent to that, we continue to offer whatever help that we can so that people's lives can come back to normal. Our development cooperation assistance with Myanmar is an important part of our collaboration..."

The Tatmadaw established the State Administration Council, or SAC, under Senior General Min Aung Hlaing and promised elections under the 2008 constitution. It also appointed the Union Election Commission and announced the election schedule, thus signalling that the process will remain tightly controlled and held under military oversight, inviting criticism from human rights groups.

Despite nationwide resistance, the Myanmar Military delayed holding the elections. It introduced the Political Parties Registration Law in January 2023, which invited criticism of restricting political participation.

Since the 2021 coup, many of Myanmar's ethnic groups, already fighting for autonomy or rights have also joined the anti‑junta resistance, turning the ethnic conflicts into widespread civil war and humanitarian crisis.

The United Nations warned late in November that the election will "deepen" the crisis in the strife-torn country. Spokesperson for the United Nations (UN) High Commissioner for Human Rights, Jeremy Laurence and other officials addressed the media, saying, "This military-controlled ballot will be conducted in an atmosphere rife with threats and violence putting the lives of civilians at risk."

UN officials warned, during a press briefing on November 28, of "discrimination" in the electoral process, against the "Rohingya, Tamils, Gurkhas, and Chinese, among others, excluded from voting", apart from the people in 56 townships still under martial rule that will also not vote.

The Wire is now on WhatsApp. Follow our channel for sharp analysis and opinions on the latest developments.