Bangladesh’s main opposition party has welcomed a “gesture of goodwill” from the Indian Prime Minister, who offered assistance for the critically ill former premier.
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has formally expressed its gratitude to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi after he voiced deep concern over the deteriorating health of party chairperson Khaleda Zia. In a rare diplomatic exchange, the BNP acknowledged Mr Modi’s offer of “all possible support” as the 80-year-old former Prime Minister battles a critical lung and heart infection in a Dhaka hospital.
Ms Zia was admitted to Evercare Hospital on 23 November and was recently placed on ventilator support after her condition worsened sharply. Medical officials report she is suffering from a complex combination of liver cirrhosis, arthritis, and diabetes, alongside a severe chest infection.
On Monday, Mr Modi took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to wish her a speedy recovery, stating that India stood ready to help. The BNP’s official handle responded hours later, thanking him for his “thoughtful message” during this “extremely critical” time.
“BNP deeply appreciates this gesture of goodwill and the expression of readiness to extend support,” the party said in its official statement.
In his original message, Mr Modi wrote: “Deeply concerned to learn about the health of Begum Khaleda Zia, who has contributed to Bangladesh’s public life for many years. India stands ready to extend all possible support in whatever way we can.”
BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir added on Monday: “She is extremely unwell. The entire nation is praying for her recovery… Local and foreign specialists are involved in her treatment.”
The exchange marks a significant moment in India-Bangladesh relations following the dramatic political shifts in Dhaka earlier this year. Khaleda Zia, the country’s first female Prime Minister, has been a central figure in Bangladeshi politics for decades but has faced long-term incarceration and health issues under the previous administration.
Since the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government in August, the BNP has re-emerged as a dominant political force. Analysts view Mr Modi’s public outreach to the opposition leader as a recalibration of diplomatic ties with Bangladesh’s changing political landscape.
A team of specialist doctors, including experts from China, is currently overseeing Ms Zia’s care in the Coronary Care Unit (CCU). Party officials have indicated that if her condition stabilizes sufficiently, they may consider transferring her abroad potentially to the UK or Singapore for advanced medical treatment. Meanwhile, reports suggest her exiled son and acting BNP chairman, Tarique Rahman, is preparing to return to Bangladesh soon.
Also Read / Putin to Visit India for High Stakes Summit.
Leave a comment