Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi Mourns Passing of Khaleda Zia

Dhaka, 30 December 2025 — Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed profound sorrow at the death of Begum Khaleda Zia, Chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and former Prime Minister of Bangladesh. In a message posted at 10:17 a.m. on Tuesday on X (formerly Twitter), Mr Modi conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family and to the people of Bangladesh, describing the loss as deeply painful for the nation.

In his statement, the Indian Prime Minister noted that Begum Khaleda Zia’s passing marked the end of an era in Bangladeshi politics. He wrote that he was “deeply saddened” by the news of her death and extended heartfelt sympathies to her family as well as to all Bangladeshis. Mr Modi further prayed that the Almighty grant strength to her loved ones to endure what he described as an irreparable loss.

Mr Modi highlighted Begum Khaleda Zia’s historic role as the first woman Prime Minister of Bangladesh, emphasising her contribution to the country’s political development and democratic journey. He also acknowledged her significance in shaping bilateral relations between India and Bangladesh, noting that her role in fostering dialogue and cooperation between the two neighbours would be remembered with respect. Recalling their warm meeting in Dhaka in 2015, Mr Modi expressed hope that her political vision and legacy would continue to guide and inspire the partnership between the two countries in the years ahead.

Begum Khaleda Zia passed away at 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday at Evercare Hospital in the capital, where she had been receiving medical treatment. She was 80 years old. Her death has cast a pall of grief across Bangladesh, prompting an outpouring of condolences from political leaders, civil society figures and members of the public at home and abroad.

As a central figure in Bangladesh’s modern political history, Begum Khaleda Zia served as Prime Minister on multiple occasions and led the BNP for decades. Her leadership shaped major political developments, electoral contests and governance debates, making her one of the most influential and, at times, polarising figures in the country’s public life. Analysts believe that her absence will leave a significant void in the nation’s political landscape, with long-term implications for party politics and democratic discourse.

Below is a brief overview of Begum Khaleda Zia’s life and political career:

Begum Khaleda Zia’s death represents a moment of collective mourning for Bangladesh. Prime Minister Modi’s message of condolence underscores the depth of respect she commanded beyond national borders and reflects the enduring importance of the relationship between India and Bangladesh at a time of shared grief.