Prime Minister Modi Expresses Condolences on Khaleda Zia's Passing

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his condolences following the death of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. In a heartfelt message, he recalled their meeting in 2015 and highlighted her contributions to Bangladesh's development and its relationship with India. Zia, who was a significant political figure and rival to Sheikh Hasina, passed away at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness. Her legacy and the impact of her political career continue to resonate in Bangladesh's political landscape. Modi's tribute emphasizes the importance of her thoughts and legacy in guiding future relations between the two nations.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 30, 2025, 11:00 IST

Modi's Tribute to Khaleda Zia

On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the death of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, who passed away in Dhaka. He reminisced about their meeting in 2015 and expressed hope that her thoughts and legacy would continue to guide India-Bangladesh relations. In a post on X, Modi stated, "I am deeply saddened to learn about the passing of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia in Dhaka. My heartfelt condolences go out to her family and all the people of Bangladesh. May God grant her family the strength to endure this loss."

Legacy of Khaleda Zia

He further noted, "As the first female Prime Minister of Bangladesh, her significant contributions to the country's development and India-Bangladesh relations will always be remembered. I recall our warm meeting in Dhaka in 2015. We hope her thoughts and legacy will continue to guide our partnership. May her soul rest in peace."

Political Rivalry and Health Struggles

Khaleda Zia, who was 80 years old, was a prominent political rival of Sheikh Hasina. Her political party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), announced her passing on Tuesday. The rivalry between Zia and Hasina has shaped Bangladeshi politics for decades. Zia faced numerous corruption charges, which she claimed were politically motivated. In January 2025, the Supreme Court acquitted her in the final corruption case, paving the way for her candidacy in the upcoming elections. She returned to Bangladesh in May after receiving treatment in the UK, having been granted permission for travel by the interim government earlier in January, despite previous rejections by Hasina's administration.

Health Deterioration

Zia's health had been declining for several days. Reports late at night indicated that her condition worsened, leading to her admission to a specialized private hospital in the capital. According to a member of the medical board, Zia's condition was extremely critical. Family members, including her eldest son and acting BNP president Tarique Rahman, visited her at the Evercare Hospital in Dhaka. The medical board member stated that Zia was on a "life support system" and required regular kidney dialysis.

He mentioned that her condition deteriorated whenever dialysis was halted. Khaleda Zia was married to former President Ziaur Rahman, who was assassinated during a military coup in 1981. Following this, Zia played a crucial role in mobilizing public opposition against military dictatorship, leading to its fall in 1990. She first took office as Prime Minister in 1991 and served again from 2001, facing her main rival Sheikh Hasina in those elections and subsequent ones.