Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday extended warm congratulations to Tarique Rahman for leading the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) to a resounding victory in the February 12 parliamentary elections, describing the mandate as "decisive" and a reflection of public trust in Rahman's leadership.
In a social media post tagging the BNP leader, Modi expressed India's steadfast commitment to supporting a "democratic, progressive and inclusive" Bangladesh. "I convey my warm congratulations to Mr. Tarique Rahman on leading BNP to a decisive victory in the Parliamentary elections in Bangladesh," the Prime Minister wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
"This victory shows the trust of the people of Bangladesh in your leadership," Modi added, while emphasizing his eagerness to collaborate with the incoming administration. "I look forward to working with you to strengthen our multifaceted relations and advance our common development goals."
Although official results are yet to be formally announced, the BNP appears headed for a landslide victory, having already secured a two-third majority in the 300-member parliament. According to local media reports, the party has clinched 212 seats, positioning Rahman to become Bangladesh's next prime minister.
The 11-party coalition led by Jamaat-e-Islami has struggled to make significant inroads, winning approximately 70 seats. The outcome marks a dramatic political shift in the nation.
Rahman's impending premiership carries historical significance. Returning to Bangladesh in December last year after more than 17 years in self-imposed exile, he is set to become the country's first male prime minister in over 36 years. His return and subsequent political ascendancy represent a pivotal moment in Bangladesh's democratic journey.
Thursday's polling recorded a voter turnout of 47.91 per cent, according to the Bangladesh Election Commission, though officials indicated the final figure might undergo revision. "There were debates over turnout percentages in past elections as well. Please don't question it now," remarked Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasur Uddin on Thursday.
These elections—the first since former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government was ousted following the July 2024 uprising—witnessed participation from over 2,000 candidates. The Election Commission deployed nearly one million security personnel to ensure peaceful conduct of polling, which proceeded from 7.30 am to 4.30 pm local time.
India's prompt and positive response to Bangladesh's electoral outcome signals New Delhi's readiness to engage constructively with Dhaka's new leadership, potentially heralding a fresh chapter in bilateral relations between the two neighbouring nations.
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