Indian parliament observes condolence motion for Khaleda Zia

Both houses of the Indian Parliament—the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha—formally paid tribute to Bangladesh’s former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia.

The tribute highlights her contributions to Bangladesh’s development, her role in strengthening India-Bangladesh relations, and her enduring influence on the country’s democratic processes.

According to PTI, the condolence motion was presented during a joint session of Parliament immediately after the President’s address. The Secretary-General read a written copy of the condolence address, which was acknowledged by both chambers.

According to the Indian news agency Free Press Journal, ahead of the budget session, condolence resolutions were tabled for several prominent figures. During the proceedings, the names of Begum Khaleda Zia, the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, and five former Lok Sabha members who died in a plane crash were read aloud.

Later, members of both houses of Parliament, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, observed a minute of silence in memory of Khaleda Zia and extended their deepest condolences to her family and the people of Bangladesh.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla extended condolences for the passing of Khaleda Zia and other notable personalities, emphasizing her pivotal role in fostering bilateral cooperation and mutual understanding between India and Bangladesh.

Birla remarked that her efforts to strengthen ties with India “will always be remembered and remain an important part of the shared history of the two countries.”

Rajya Sabha Chairman CP Radhakrishnan also conveyed his respects, noting Khaleda Zia’s tenure as prime minister and as the leader of the opposition. He highlighted her contributions to Bangladesh’s socio-economic development and her pivotal role in advancing the country’s democratic institutions.

Members of both houses observed a minute of silence in her memory, expressing solidarity with her bereaved family and the people of Bangladesh.

Khaleda Zia passed away on December 30, 2025, at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka at the age of 80.

Following her death, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar visited Dhaka to personally deliver a written condolence message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman, underscoring the importance India attaches to her legacy and the enduring diplomatic ties between the two countries.

In the condolence message Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed to then BNP acting chairman, ‘Dear Tarique Rahman Sahib,’ and wrote that although Khaleda Zia’s passing has created an ‘irreplaceable void,’ her vision and legacy will endure.

Earlier, on January 1, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi to pay tribute to Khaleda Zia.

The tribute in India’s Parliament is seen by analysts as highly symbolic, reflecting both respect for a prominent Bangladeshi political leader and recognition of Bangladesh’s democratic processes.

The condolence motion was also officially recorded in the proceedings of Parliament, ensuring that her legacy is formally documented in Indian parliamentary history.

Observers note that this gesture comes at a time when both countries are engaged in deepening diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties, signaling India’s recognition of the contributions of leaders who have shaped Bangladesh’s modern trajectory.

Political analysts say that the gesture has broader implications, reflecting the soft diplomatic diplomacy India practices in honoring regional leaders, promoting goodwill, and reinforcing the long-standing historical and cultural connections between the two countries. Beyond honouring Khaleda Zia personally, it also sends a message of respect to the Bangladeshi people and their democratic institutions, highlighting the interlinked histories and shared priorities of the neighboring nations.

The Budget Session for the 2026-27 financial year commenced with an address by Indian President Droupadi Murmu and will continue until April 2. The Economic Survey is scheduled to be presented on January 29, followed by the Union Budget on February 1.