KOLKATA — A rocky election season in Bangladesh is highlighting the divergent pursuits and diplomatic approaches of India and the U.S., in addition to the interaction between the strategic companions and their shared rival, China.

Both Washington and New Delhi say they assist a democratic and secure Bangladesh, which is due for a common election on Jan. 7. But the 2 powers have adopted very alternative ways of displaying it, as a Bangladeshi opposition boycott, unrest within the streets and previous allegations of rigging overshadow the polls.