Dhaka, 30 December 2025 — Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed profound sorrow at the death of Begum Khaleda Zia, former Prime Minister of Bangladesh and Chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). In a condolence message posted on social media platform X at 10:17 a.m. on Tuesday, Mr Modi conveyed his deepest sympathies to the bereaved family and shared in the grief of the people of Bangladesh, describing her demise as an irreplaceable loss for the nation.
In his message, the Indian Prime Minister noted that the passing of Begum Khaleda Zia marked the end of a significant chapter in Bangladesh’s political history. He stated that the news had left him deeply distressed and extended heartfelt condolences not only to her family members but also to the wider Bangladeshi public. Mr Modi further prayed that the Almighty would grant strength and patience to those mourning during this difficult period.
Recalling her historical role, Mr Modi highlighted Begum Khaleda Zia’s position as the first woman to serve as Prime Minister of Bangladesh, a milestone that opened new horizons for democratic politics in the country. Under her leadership, Bangladesh experienced important political transitions, and she played a notable role in strengthening parliamentary democracy. The Indian leader also acknowledged her contribution to fostering dialogue and engagement between India and Bangladesh, noting that her efforts towards bilateral relations would be remembered with respect.
Mr Modi referred to his meeting with Begum Khaleda Zia during his visit to Dhaka in 2015, describing it as a meaningful interaction between two leaders representing neighbouring democracies. He expressed hope that her political philosophy and legacy would continue to inspire cooperation, mutual respect, and understanding between the two countries in the years ahead.
Begum Khaleda Zia passed away at 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday while undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital in the capital. She was 80 years old and had been suffering from multiple chronic health complications for an extended period. Her death has cast a pall of grief across Bangladesh, with political leaders, civil society figures, and citizens from all walks of life paying tribute to her life and service.
A towering and often controversial figure in Bangladesh’s modern political history, Begum Khaleda Zia served multiple terms as Prime Minister and led the BNP for decades. Her political journey encompassed elections, mass movements, governance challenges, and periods of intense political rivalry. Analysts observe that her passing leaves a substantial void in the country’s political landscape, one that is likely to influence party politics and democratic practice for years to come.
Below is a brief overview of Begum Khaleda Zia’s life and political career:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Year of Birth | 1945, Dhaka |
| Date of Death | 30 December 2025 |
| Age at Death | 80 years |
| Political Positions | Former Prime Minister; BNP Chairperson |
| First Term as Prime Minister | 1991–1996 |
| Subsequent Terms | 2001–2006; 2018 (partial) |
| Historic Distinction | First female Prime Minister of Bangladesh |
| International Engagement | Contribution to India–Bangladesh relations |
| Notable Event | Meeting with Narendra Modi in 2015 |
Begum Khaleda Zia’s death represents not merely the loss of a prominent political leader, but the closing of a defining chapter in Bangladesh’s national narrative. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s message of condolence underscores her stature beyond national borders and highlights the human dimension of ties between the two neighbouring nations.