Prime Minister Narendra Modi has penned a heartfelt condolence letter to Tarique Rahman, the acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), following the passing of his mother and former Bangladesh Prime Minister, Begum Khaleda Zia. The three-time premier and the first woman to lead Bangladesh died on Tuesday, December 31, 2025, at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness.
A Legacy of Leadership and Bilateral Ties
In his letter, Prime Minister Modi expressed profound sadness and extended his deepest sympathies to the Rahman family and the people of Bangladesh. He highlighted the irreplaceable void left by Zia's demise but affirmed that her vision and legacy would continue to inspire.
Modi warmly recalled his meeting and discussions with Begum Khaleda Zia during his official visit to Dhaka in June 2015. He described her as a leader of 'rare resolve and conviction' who made significant contributions not only to Bangladesh's development but also to the strengthening of India-Bangladesh relations.
Diplomatic Gestures and National Mourning
India's External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, who was in Dhaka on Wednesday, January 1, 2026, to represent India at the state funeral, personally handed over PM Modi's letter to Tarique Rahman. This diplomatic gesture underscored the importance India attaches to its relationship with Bangladesh and all its political stakeholders.
Khaleda Zia was laid to rest on Wednesday beside her husband, former President Ziaur Rahman, at the Sher-e-Bangla Nagar in Dhaka. The funeral saw thousands of citizens gather to pay their final respects to the veteran leader, a towering figure who played a pivotal role in restoring democracy in Bangladesh after periods of military rule.
Forward-Looking Message for Bilateral Partnership
Looking ahead, PM Modi's letter conveyed confidence that Khaleda Zia's ideals would be carried forward under Tarique Rahman's leadership. The Prime Minister expressed hope that her legacy would serve as a 'guiding light' for a new beginning and the further enrichment of the deep and historic partnership between the two neighbouring nations.
Modi also praised the people of Bangladesh for their remarkable strength and dignity during this period of national mourning, expressing confidence in their democratic traditions and national unity.
The condolence message comes at a significant political juncture, with Tarique Rahman being a front-runner in the upcoming February 12 parliamentary polls. PM Modi concluded his letter by extending his best wishes for Rahman's future endeavours.
