Mamata Banerjee expresses deep sorrow over Khaleda Zia’s death

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee has expressed deep sorrow at the death of three-time former prime minister of Bangladesh and BNP chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, 79.

In a condolence message posted on social media platform X on Tuesday, Mamata Banerjee said she was saddened by the death of one of Bangladesh’s foremost public leaders. She conveyed her sincere condolences to the bereaved family, personal friends and political colleagues of the late leader.

In her message, the West Bengal chief minister wrote that she mourned the passing of former Bangladeshi prime minister and prominent public leader Begum Khaleda Zia, and extended her sympathies to her family, friends and political associates, reflecting deep respect for Khaleda Zia’s political stature and mass appeal.

Begum Khaleda Zia, widely known as the uncompromising leader, breathed her last at 6:00 am on Tuesday at Evercare Hospital in the capital after prolonged illness.

Following her death, condolence messages have continued to pour in from India’s central government and leaders of various states. Earlier, Indian prime minister Narendra Modi also expressed deep sorrow, highlighting Khaleda Zia’s historic role as Bangladesh’s first woman prime minister and recalling his courtesy meeting with her during his visit to Bangladesh in 2015.

The condolences from senior Indian leaders underline Begum Khaleda Zia’s unique stature and respected position in South Asian politics.