Just months before the Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s historic election win, PM Narendra Modi’s December 30 letter to BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman quietly foreshadowed a shift in India-Bangladesh diplomacy as Dhaka was seeking to enter a new political phase.
The BNP’s victory in the February 12 polls, positioning Rahman to become prime minister after years in exile, may mark a significant transition in the neighbours’ ties.
Tarique Rahman, son of former prime minister Khaleda Zia, returned to Bangladesh after nearly two decades abroad and led the BNP to victory in the first election since the 2024 uprising. His win comes amid deep public demand for change and recovery from months of unrest that displaced the former ruling party.
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Rahman has positioned his party on an “economy‑based foreign policy” and “Bangladesh First” approach, promising policy reframing that prioritises national interests and mutual benefit — a message that appeals to voters and could shape Dhaka’s future regional partnerships.
PM Modi’s diplomatic signal wrapped in a condolence letter In the letter, PM Modi conveyed deep sorrow over Khaleda Zia’s death, writing: “I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing away of your mother… Please accept my heartfelt condolences on this profound personal loss. May her soul rest in eternal peace.” He recalled his 2015 meeting with the former PM, describing her as “a leader of rare resolve and conviction, and had the distinction of being the first woman Prime Minister of Bangladesh.”
Modi also expressed confidence in Rahman’s leadership, noting: “I am confident that her ideals will be carried forward under your able leadership of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, and will continue to serve as a guiding light to ensure a new beginning and the enrichment of the deep and historic partnership between India and Bangladesh.”
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar personally handed Modi’s letter to Rahman in Dhaka, in which the Indian Prime Minister also wished Rahman “all the best for future endeavors.”
— DrSJaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) Meanwhile, on February 13 after Rahman claimed victory, PM Modi also congratulated the BNP leader and extended support for an ‘inclusive Bangladesh.’ “I convey my warm congratulations to Mr. Tarique Rahman on leading BNP to a decisive victory in the Parliamentary elections in Bangladesh. This victory shows the trust of the people of Bangladesh in your leadership.India will continue to stand in support of a democratic, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh. I look forward to working with you to strengthen our multifaceted relations and advance our common development goals,” Modi said in a post on X.
Delhi-Dhaka’s strained ties before the election Relations between New Delhi and Dhaka had frayed ov
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