Khaleda Zia, the former Prime Minister of Bangladesh and chief of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), passed away at the age of 80 on December 30, 2025, after a prolonged illness. Her death marks the end of an era in Bangladeshi politics, where she, along with her arch-rival Sheikh Hasina, dominated the political landscape for over three decades.
Zia's relationship with India has been complex and marked by both cooperation and tension. During her first term as Prime Minister (1991-1996), relations were strained due to issues such as water sharing of the Ganges River and cross-border insurgencies. Her government's "Look East" policy signaled a strategic alignment with China and Islamic countries, rather than India. During her second term (2001-2006), bilateral ties reached a low point, with India expressing concerns about militant groups operating from Bangladesh and cross-border infiltration. India alleged that insurgents were using Bangladeshi soil to destabilize India's northeastern states during this period.
Despite these tensions, Zia also made efforts to improve relations with India. She visited India twice as Prime Minister, in 1992 and 2006, and once as an opposition leader in 2012. Her 2006 state visit resulted in agreements on trade and security, and her 2012 visit aimed to rebuild BNP ties with New Delhi. In recent years, BNP leaders have expressed a desire for a partnership with India based on equality and mutual respect. One of Khaleda Zia's advisors emphasized that opposing Sheikh Hasina does not equate to being anti-India, and stressed the importance of healthy relations between the two countries.
Throughout her career, Zia faced accusations of supporting anti-India elements and harboring a soft spot for Pakistan. However, she also took steps to address India's concerns about terrorism. In 2004, Sheikh Hasina blamed Zia's government for grenade attacks in Dhaka that killed 24 members of her Awami League party. In 2015, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina planned to form an Anti-terrorism Special Tribunal under the Anti Terrorism Act 2009 to try cases of violence against Khaleda Zia and her allies, for instigating firebombings.
Despite facing numerous challenges, including corruption charges and periods of imprisonment, Zia remained a significant force in Bangladeshi politics. In January 2025, she was acquitted in the last corruption case against her, paving the way for her to participate in the upcoming February election. Despite her ill health, she vowed to campaign in the election.
Khaleda Zia's legacy is complex and multifaceted. She is remembered as the first female Prime Minister of Bangladesh and a champion of democracy. Some observers describe her as an "uncompromising leader" who remained resolute in power and in opposition. She played a significant role in restoring the parliamentary system in Bangladesh, choosing to reduce the authority of the presidency and strengthen democratic institutions. Others criticize her for her alleged support of extremist groups and her strained relationship with India.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over Zia's death and acknowledged her contributions to India-Bangladesh ties. The United States also extended condolences, recognizing her pivotal role in shaping Bangladesh's modern history. Her death undoubtedly leaves a void in Bangladesh's political arena.
