India thaws relations with BNP following Khaleda Zia’s death

The death of Bangladesh’s former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson, Begum Khaleda Zia, appears to have eased long-standing tensions between India and the BNP, according to an Al Jazeera report.

The report notes that recent developments and diplomatic engagement indicate that New Delhi–BNP relations are entering a new phase.

On December 30, India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited Dhaka to attend Khaleda Zia’s funeral. The following day, he held a cordial meeting with BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, presenting a condolence letter from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Jaishankar later tweeted that Khaleda Zia’s vision and values would guide future bilateral relations.

While New Delhi has historically viewed Khaleda Zia and BNP politics with suspicion, the upcoming national elections have begun to shift the dynamics.

The Al Jazeera report notes that both sides are working to reduce mutual distance and adapt to the new political reality. Tarique Rahman has emphasised minority protection and an inclusive Bangladesh, messages that are seen as comparatively acceptable by India.

Former Indian Foreign Secretary and former High Commissioner to Dhaka, Harsh Vardhan Shringla, observed that Tarique has become more politically mature during his exile. Analysts suggest that despite past complexities, practical realities are compelling New Delhi to engage more with Tarique Rahman.

However, experts caution that mere condolence visits or exchanges of goodwill will not produce lasting changes in bilateral ties. Tarique’s adviser Humayun Kabir noted that a clear break from the past is essential to forge a new relationship. BNP’s stated aim is to enhance cooperation with neighbouring countries and rebuild India–Bangladesh relations as a people-centered, rather than personality-driven, partnership.