India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reached Dhaka on Wednesday to represent New Delhi at the funeral ceremonies of former Bangladesh Prime Minister and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chief Khaleda Zia. During his visit, Jaishankar personally conveyed a condolence message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Zia’s family, underscoring India’s respect for her political legacy and contribution to Bangladesh’s democratic journey.

Jaishankar met members of the late leader’s family and handed over the Prime Minister’s letter to her son, Tarique Rahman. The visit was described as a gesture of solidarity from the people and the government of India at a time when Bangladesh is mourning one of its most influential political figures. Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to India, Riaz Hamidullah, shared visuals of the meeting, highlighting India’s acknowledgment of Khaleda Zia’s role in shaping the country’s democratic institutions.

Khaleda Zia, who served as Bangladesh’s Prime Minister on three occasions and was the country’s first woman to hold the office, passed away at the age of 80 after a long illness. She died early Tuesday morning at a private hospital in Dhaka, shortly after morning prayers. Her death has triggered an outpouring of grief across the political spectrum in Bangladesh.

The funeral prayers are scheduled to take place later today at the South Plaza of the National Parliament complex and the adjoining Manik Mia Avenue, following the afternoon prayers. After the ceremony, Khaleda Zia will be laid to rest at Zia Udyan in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, alongside her husband, former President Ziaur Rahman.

Given her stature in national politics, large crowds are expected to gather to pay their final respects. The interim government led by Muhammad Yunus has put in place extensive security and logistical arrangements to manage the proceedings and ensure smooth conduct of the funeral.