Begum Khaleda Zia, a towering figure in Bangladesh's political landscape and the nation's first female Prime Minister, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 80. Her demise has cast a pall of grief across Bangladesh, drawing condolences from the international community. India has also extended its heartfelt sympathies during this sorrowful time, with the Indian government deciding to send its External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, to attend her funeral. Dr, while jaishankar is scheduled to depart for Dhaka on Wednesday, where the last rites for Khaleda Zia will be performed.
India's Representation at Funeral
The Government of India has taken a significant step to convey its profound condolences on the passing of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia and to express solidarity with her family and the people of Bangladesh. External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar will represent the Indian government at her funeral, traveling to Dhaka on Wednesday. This gesture underscores the deep-rooted relationship and mutual respect shared between India and Bangladesh, especially during a moment when a neighboring nation mourns the loss of a prominent leader, while dr. Jaishankar's presence is expected to further strengthen the historical and cultural ties binding the two countries.
PM Modi's Condolence Message
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep sorrow over the demise of Begum Khaleda Zia. He conveyed his condolences through a post on the social media platform 'X', while pM Modi wrote, "Deeply saddened to learn about the demise of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia in Dhaka. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family and the entire populace of Bangladesh. May God grant her family the strength to bear this irreparable loss. " He further added, "As the first female Prime Minister of Bangladesh, her significant contributions to Bangladesh's development and in advancing India-Bangladesh relations will always be remembered. I recall my cordial meeting with her in Dhaka in 2015. We hope that her ideas and legacy will guide our partnership in the right direction in the future. May her soul rest in peace. " This message highlights Khaleda Zia's political stature and her contributions to India-Bangladesh relations.
Demise and Health Struggles
Begum Khaleda Zia passed away on Tuesday morning while undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka. She had been admitted to the hospital on November 23 due to a lung infection. The former Prime Minister had been battling multiple serious ailments for a long time, including heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, liver cirrhosis, and kidney problems. Given her deteriorating health condition, she was sent to London earlier this month for advanced medical treatment for her various illnesses. Despite all efforts, her health continued to decline, ultimately leading to her passing. Her long struggle with various health issues had been a matter of public concern for some time.
A Trailblazing Leader
Begum Khaleda Zia carved a significant place in the political history of Bangladesh. She was the first female Prime Minister of Bangladesh, ushering in a new chapter in the nation's governance. As the Chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), she led the party for many years and remained a strong voice in the country's politics. Her tenure saw significant contributions to Bangladesh's development and the strengthening of relations with India, which have been widely acknowledged. Her political journey was marked by both challenges and successes, establishing her as an iconic leader among the people of Bangladesh.
Funeral Arrangements and Public Mourning
Khaleda Zia's funeral is scheduled to take place on Wednesday in Dhaka. Upon the news of her passing, a large crowd gathered outside Evercare Hospital in Dhaka. People flocked to pay their respects to their beloved leader and to catch a final glimpse, while begum Zia's son and acting chairman of the BNP, Tarique Rahman, also arrived at the hospital to pay tribute to his late mother. This public outpouring of grief is a testament to her popularity and profound impact on Bangladeshi society, while preparations for her funeral are underway, with many dignitaries from both within the country and abroad expected to attend.
