BNP May Invite PM Modi For Tarique Rahman's Swearing-In As New Bangladesh PM

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is planning to invite Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the upcoming swearing-in ceremony of Tarique Rahman as the country's new Prime Minister, according to multiple reports and statements from senior BNP leaders. This development follows the BNP's landslide victory in the February 12, 2026, general elections—the first since the 2024 student-led uprising that ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina—marking a major political shift after two decades out of power.

Humayun Kabir, foreign policy advisor to BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman and a prospective key figure in the new administration, confirmed the intention in interviews, describing the invitation as a "goodwill gesture" to strengthen bilateral ties. He noted that preparations are underway to extend invites to regional heads of state, with PM Modi among the priority invitees. The move signals BNP's desire to reset and improve relations with India, its largest neighbor, after a period of strained dynamics under the previous regime. PM Modi was among the first global leaders to congratulate Rahman via phone following the election results, expressing hopes for forward-moving relations.

Tarique Rahman, 60, son of late BNP founder Khaleda Zia and a former exile in London for 17 years due to corruption charges, is poised to assume the premiership after the BNP-led alliance secured a two-thirds majority with over 212 seats in the 299-member Jatiya Sangsad. Official results published by the Election Commission have paved the way for the transition, with the swearing-in of newly elected MPs and the new government expected as early as Monday or Tuesday next week. Interim Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has congratulated Rahman and is set to hand over power, emphasizing stability and development under the incoming leadership.

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The swearing-in ceremony, anticipated to be a significant diplomatic event in Dhaka, comes amid broader regional interest and could host other leaders if invitations are accepted. No official confirmation has come from the Indian government regarding Modi's attendance, but his early outreach and the BNP's emphasis on constructive engagement highlight potential for renewed cooperation on trade, security, and border issues. Rahman's campaign focused on clean politics, anti-corruption measures, and addressing economic challenges like inflation and unemployment in a nation still recovering from recent turmoil.

This invitation reflects BNP's intent to prioritize "friendly coordination" with India while navigating a new democratic chapter, following overwhelming voter support for constitutional reforms including term limits and enhanced representation. As Bangladesh transitions to elected governance, the possible presence of PM Modi would underscore improving ties and regional goodwill in South Asia.

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