Prime Minister Narendra Modi has conveyed his condolences to the family of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who passed away on December 30th at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness. The message was delivered in a personal letter handed to Zia's son, Tarique Rahman, the acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), by India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in Dhaka on Wednesday.

In his letter, Modi described Zia as a leader of "rare resolve and conviction". He recalled meeting her in Dhaka in June 2015, acknowledging her contributions to Bangladesh's development and the strengthening of India-Bangladesh relations. Modi recognized Zia as the first woman Prime Minister of Bangladesh, stating that her "vision and legacy will endure".

"Dear Tarique Rahman Saheb," Modi wrote, "I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing away of your mother, Her Excellency Begum Khaleda Zia, former Prime Minister of Bangladesh and Chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party. Please accept my heartfelt condolences on this profound personal loss".

Modi also expressed confidence in Tarique Rahman's leadership, stating, "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".

Jaishankar, who represented India at Zia's funeral, conveyed the condolences of the Indian government and people. He also expressed confidence that Zia's "vision and values" would continue to guide the partnership between the two nations.

Khaleda Zia was laid to rest with state honors in Dhaka on Wednesday, with thousands in attendance, including S Jaishankar. She was buried next to her husband, former President Ziaur Rahman.

Modi also extended his sympathies to the people of Bangladesh, praising their "shared values, democratic traditions, and a deep sense of national unity". He wished Rahman strength and fortitude in overcoming the loss.

Jaishankar's visit to Dhaka occurred amidst existing tensions between India and Bangladesh. Relations had reportedly become strained after the interim government headed by Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus came to power. India has also expressed concerns regarding attacks on minorities, particularly Hindus, in Bangladesh.

The meeting between Jaishankar and Rahman marked the first interaction between an Indian Minister and Rahman since his return from self-exile in London on December 25, 2025.