Bangladesh elections: BNP hails PM Modi’s message as recognition of 'people’s verdict' in polls

Bangladesh Nationalist Party Chairperson Tarique Rahman waves as he comes out after casting his vote during the national parliamentary elections in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on Thursday. (Source: AP Photo)

• BNP leaders welcome PM Modi's congratulatory message to Rahman
• Modi affirms India's support for a democratic Bangladesh
• Tarique Rahman returns after 16 years, leads BNP to victory

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Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leaders on Friday welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s congratulatory message to Tarique Rahman, calling it an acknowledgment of the electorate’s mandate in the country’s parliamentary elections.

BNP standing committee member Nazrul Islam Khan said, “It’s great that a democratic country is supposed to recognise the verdict of the people and Mr Modi has done this, we thank him.”

He added, “We hope that the relationship between the two neighbouring countries and their people with strengthen. I want to thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi for congratulating our leader.”

Prime Minister Modi, in a message posted on X, said, “I convey my warm congratulations to Mr. Tarique Rahman on leading BNP to a decisive victory in the Parliamentary elections in Bangladesh. This victory shows the trust of the people of Bangladesh in your leadership.” He further stated, “India will continue to stand in support of a democratic, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh. I look forward to working with you to strengthen our multifaceted relations and advance our common development goals.”

Echoing similar sentiments, BNP thanked India for recognising the outcome of the polls and expressed hope for closer engagement between the two neighbours under the new administration.

A senior BNP leader told AFP that the party’s win was in line with public expectations. “This victory was expected. It is not surprising that the people of Bangladesh have placed their trust in a party... capable of realising the dreams that our youth envisioned during the uprising,” said Salahuddin Ahmed.

The election marks a significant political moment for Tarique Rahman, who returned to Bangladesh less than two months ago after nearly two decades in London. He had left the country in 2008 following his release from detention during a military-backed caretaker administration and came back last December after a youth-led movement removed long-time premier Sheikh Hasina in August 2024.