Yes, the D3200 (like all current low end Nikon DSLRs) can't control non-electronic lenses.

The meter (and viewfinder) are illuminated at the maximum possible aperture and calculating exposure would require knowing the difference between it and the selected aperture: hence the ability of higher end cameras to implement A and assisted M modes thanks to the use of a relative aperture sensor, as visible in this image

The opposite problem is readily solvable on AI-S (and derived) lenses given the proportionality between the stopdown lever and the resulting aperture, to the extent that some film cameras predating on-camera aperture control can fully use G-series lenses in the P and S modes!

This still requires knowledge of the minimum aperture (as implemented by mechanical sensors on those cameras), and the higher end digital bodies have exactly a menu feature for programming older lenses but without getting in-camera aperture control. How much of it is due to intentional marketing restrictions is up to personal preference.

If you're really inclined, some companies will add electronics to almost any lens imaginable.