Indian Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla is expected to represent the Indian government at the swearing-in ceremony in Dhaka as the BNP, led by its Chairman Tarique Rahman, is set to form the government on February 17.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs revealed the information in a statement today.

“The speaker’s participation at this important event underscores the deep and enduring friendship between the peoples of India and Bangladesh, reaffirming India's steadfast commitment to the democratic values that bind our two nations,” it said.

As neighbours united by a shared history, culture, and mutual respect, India welcomes Bangladesh's transition to an elected government under the leadership of Tarique Rahman, whose vision and values have received an overwhelming mandate of the people, it added.

Diplomatic sources said Bangladesh has invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and at least 11 other heads of governments of South Asia and beyond.

The country also invited leaders from China, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, the UAE, Qatar, Malaysia, Brunei, Sri Lanka, Nepal, the Maldives, and Bhutan.

Indian PM Modi is, however, indisposed as he is expected to attend an international event hosted by India titled, “India-AI Impact Summit”, from February 16-20.

As for the other leaders who have been invited for the swearing-in, it could not be confirmed whether they would be in attendance.