Modi congratulates Tarique Rahman as BNP clinches majority in Bangladesh polls

Rahman, son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, is set to become the next Prime Minister following the BNP’s dramatic comeback in the country’s 13th national parliamentary polls.

His return marks a major political shift in Bangladesh, which has witnessed prolonged instability since the exit of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina after the 2024 July–August uprising.

In a post on X, Modi said, “I convey my warm congratulations to Mr. Tarique Rahman on leading BNP to a decisive victory in the Parliamentary elections in Bangladesh.”

“This victory reflects the trust of the people of Bangladesh in your leadership,” he added.

Modi further reaffirmed India’s commitment to its neighbour, stating, “India will continue to stand in support of a democratic, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh.”

He also expressed his willingness to work closely with Rahman to strengthen bilateral ties and advance shared development goals.

  The relationship between India and Bangladesh touched a new low after Hasina's exit, with the neighbouring nation witnessing an alarming attack on minorities, especially Hindus.  

BNP Returns to Power

According to vote-counting trends on Friday, the BNP secured 151 constituencies — the exact number required for a simple majority in the 300-member Jatiya Sangsad.

The Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami emerged as the principal opposition force, winning 43 seats as per trends available at 8 am (IST).

The BNP’s victory signals a significant political resurgence after years in opposition, positioning Rahman at the helm during a period of national transition.

Tarique Rahman’s Return After 17 Years

Now 58, Rahman spent nearly two decades in exile in London, directing BNP affairs from abroad and functioning as the party’s de facto leader. His return to Bangladesh closes a chapter marked by legal battles, political uncertainty, and exile — and opens a new one at a critical juncture in the nation’s political landscape.

His re-entry into active domestic politics was made possible after higher courts acquitted him in several high-profile cases, including the 2004 grenade attack case and the Zia Orphanage Trust corruption case. These rulings removed key legal barriers that had kept him overseas and paved the way for his political comeback.

A Turning Point for Bangladesh

Rahman’s return coincided with heightened instability across the country. Since Sheikh Hasina’s removal following last year’s mass uprising, Bangladesh has experienced repeated episodes of unrest and political volatility.

Who is Tarique Rahman?

As the elder son of Khaleda Zia, Rahman has long been one of the most polarising figures in Bangladeshi politics. Previously convicted on charges ranging from money laundering to alleged involvement in an assassination plot against Sheikh Hasina, he has consistently denied wrongdoing, describing the cases as politically motivated.

Despite his prolonged absence from Bangladesh, Rahman maintained firm control over the BNP’s strategic direction and political positioning — a factor that appears to have contributed significantly to the party’s resurgence.