New Delhi, December 30 :
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. He extended condolences to her family and the people of Bangladesh.
In a post on X, PM Modi said he was “deeply saddened” by her passing. He prayed for strength and courage for her family during this difficult time. He also conveyed solidarity with the people of Bangladesh.
Khaleda Zia Passes Away in Dhaka
Begum Khaleda Zia died early Tuesday morning in Dhaka. She was 80 years old. She was undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital.
According to a statement by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), she passed away at around 6 am local time, shortly after the Fajr prayer. Party leaders and supporters gathered outside the hospital soon after the news broke.
Zia had been admitted to the hospital on November 23 with a lung infection. She had been suffering from multiple health issues for several years. These included heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, liver cirrhosis, and kidney complications. Earlier this month, she had also travelled to London for advanced medical care.
PM Modi Recalls 2015 Dhaka Meeting
Recalling her political legacy, PM Modi said Khaleda Zia made significant contributions to Bangladesh’s development. He noted that she also played an important role in strengthening India–Bangladesh relations.
The Prime Minister remembered his 2015 meeting with Khaleda Zia in Dhaka. He said her vision and leadership would continue to guide bilateral ties between the two nations.
“As the first woman Prime Minister of Bangladesh, her contributions will always be remembered,” PM Modi said. He added that her legacy would remain an inspiration for future generations.
Nationwide Mourning in Bangladesh
Khaleda Zia served as Bangladesh’s Prime Minister twice and was the first woman to hold the office. She was also the chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party. Her death has triggered mourning across the country.
Leaders, supporters, and citizens paid tribute to her life and political journey. The BNP has appealed to people to pray for the eternal peace of her soul.
