Context:
Khaleda Zia, Bangladesh’s first woman Prime Minister and long-time Chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), passed away at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness. Her death comes at a politically sensitive moment for Bangladesh, marked by transition and upcoming elections, with India sending External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to attend her funeral in Dhaka—signalling diplomatic sensitivity and continuity in bilateral engagement.
Key Highlights:
Political Legacy & Leadership
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Served as Prime Minister twice: 1991–1996 and 2001–2006.
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Played a pivotal role in restoring democracy after prolonged military rule.
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Along with Sheikh Hasina, led the mass movement that ousted General H.M. Ershad in 1990.
State & Diplomatic Response
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Three days of state mourning announced by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus.
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Sheikh Hasina acknowledged Khaleda Zia’s contribution to Bangladesh’s political history.
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India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar attending the funeral reflects the importance of India–Bangladesh relations.
Family & Party Developments
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Tarique Rahman, her son and BNP Acting Chairman, returned from exile on December 25, potentially reshaping BNP’s future political strategy.
India–Bangladesh Relations During Her Tenure
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Her second term witnessed strained relations with India, especially over the alleged presence of anti-India insurgent and terror groups operating from Bangladeshi soil.
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At other times, engagement with India remained pragmatic but cautious.
Relevant Prelims Points:
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Issue: Passing of a key political figure in South Asia amid political transition.
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Key Facts:
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First woman PM of Bangladesh
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BNP Chairperson
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Political Institutions:
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Caretaker Government system (earlier used in Bangladesh for elections)
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Impact:
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Potential reshaping of opposition politics in Bangladesh
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Diplomatic symbolism through India’s high-level representation
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Relevant Mains Points:
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Key Definitions:
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Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP): Major political party founded by Ziaur Rahman.
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Caretaker Government: Interim, non-partisan arrangement to conduct elections (now abolished).
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Historical Context:
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Post-1975 political instability following the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
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Alternating political dominance between BNP and Awami League shaped Bangladesh’s democracy.
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Governance & Democracy:
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Her boycott of the 2013 elections weakened BNP and consolidated Awami League dominance.
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India’s Strategic Interest:
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Stability in Bangladesh is crucial for regional security, counter-terrorism, and connectivity projects.
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Way Forward:
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India to maintain balanced engagement with all political stakeholders in Bangladesh
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Support democratic processes without political interference
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UPSC Relevance (GS-wise):
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GS 2: International Relations – India–Bangladesh relations
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GS 1: World History – South Asian political evolution
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GS 2: Polity – Democratic transitions