Jaishankar to Represent India at Khaleda Zia’s Funeral as Region Mourns Bangladesh’s Former Prime Minister
India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will attend the funeral of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Khaleda Zia in Dhaka. Zia, Bangladesh’s first female PM and BNP chairperson, died on December 30 after prolonged illness. PM Modi extended condolences, marking the significance of her legacy.
Khaleda Zia passed away early on Tuesday, December 30, at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka, where she had been undergoing treatment since late November. According to the BNP, she died at around 6:00 am local time, shortly after dawn prayers. She had been battling multiple serious health conditions, including advanced liver cirrhosis, cardiac complications, diabetes, and lung infections, which had led to a prolonged hospitalisation.
Following her death, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed India’s condolences, expressing deep sorrow over the passing of the former Bangladeshi leader. In a public message, he noted her stature as a former prime minister and as the BNP’s chairperson, acknowledging her enduring role in Bangladesh’s political life.
Khaleda Zia holds a prominent place in the country’s history as Bangladesh’s first female prime minister and a central figure during some of its most turbulent political phases. Her leadership and legacy have left a lasting imprint on national politics, shaping party dynamics and governance debates for decades.
Dr. Jaishankar’s presence at the funeral underscores the importance India attaches to its ties with Bangladesh and reflects a formal gesture of respect following the demise of a leader who played a pivotal role in the neighbouring nation’s political evolution. As preparations for her final rites continue in Dhaka, the event is expected to draw senior political leaders and dignitaries, highlighting the broader regional impact of her passing.

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