Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed profound grief on Tuesday following the sudden demise of former Bangladesh Prime Minister and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, who passed away in Dhaka after a prolonged battle with multiple health complications, marking the end of an era in South Asian politics.

In a heartfelt post on X, Modi conveyed his deep sadness over the loss, extending sincerest condolences to Zia's family and the entire nation of Bangladesh, while praying that the Almighty provides them the strength and fortitude to endure this immense tragic loss during such a challenging time.

The Prime Minister fondly recalled his warm and productive meeting with Begum Zia in Dhaka back in 2015, highlighting how her visionary leadership and enduring legacy in fostering stronger bilateral ties would continue to inspire and guide the partnership between India and Bangladesh for years to come.

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Khaleda Zia, aged 80, breathed her last early Tuesday morning at around 6 a.m. at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka, where she had been receiving intensive treatment since late November for severe conditions including advanced liver cirrhosis, heart and lung infections, kidney issues, diabetes, arthritis, and pneumonia.

As Bangladesh's pioneering first female prime minister, serving three terms and leading the nation through pivotal periods, Zia emerged as an uncompromising force in restoring multiparty democracy after military rule, dominating the political landscape for decades through her resilience and dedication to nationalism, while her longstanding rivalry with Sheikh Hasina defined the country's modern democratic journey.

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