Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday congratulated Tarique Rahman after projected results indicated that the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is heading towards victory in the country’s 13th parliamentary elections.
In a post on X, PM Modi said the outcome reflects the confidence of the Bangladeshi people in Rahman’s leadership.
“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 wrote.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed India’s commitment to supporting a democratic and progressive Bangladesh and expressed hope for stronger bilateral cooperation.
“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,” he added.
Earlier, the BNP stated that it is set to form the next government as vote counting continues across the country. In a post on X, the party’s media cell said it has secured a majority of seats.
According to local media reports, vote counting has been completed in 249 constituencies, with results from 50 seats still awaited. Of the 299 seats declared so far, BNP and its allies have reportedly secured 181 seats, while Jamaat and its allies have won 61 seats, suggesting a significant political shift in Bangladesh.
Tarique Rahman has reportedly been unofficially declared elected from the Bogura-6 (Sadar) constituency after defeating his nearest rival by a comfortable margin.
Meanwhile, the BNP chairman has requested party workers to postpone victory celebrations as a mark of respect following the passing of his mother, Khaleda Zia, ahead of the elections. The party has called for special prayers for her after the Friday congregational prayers.
The elections are being seen as a pivotal moment in Bangladesh’s political landscape, marking a departure from the long-standing ‘Battle of Begums’ era.
