BNP thanks PM Modi as Khaleda Zia battles critical illness in Dhaka hospital

Bangladesh’s main opposition party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), on December 2 publicly thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his message praying for the recovery of its chairperson and former prime minister Begum Khaleda Zia, who continues to remain in critical condition under intensive medical care in Dhaka.

Modi, posting on X, expressed deep concern over the deteriorating health of the 80-year-old leader. “Deeply concerned to learn about the health of Begum Khaleda Zia, who has contributed to Bangladesh’s public life for many years,” he wrote, adding that India stood ready to extend “all possible support.”

In a rare note of bipartisan response, the BNP acknowledged the message, calling it a significant gesture of goodwill. “BNP deeply appreciates this gesture and the expression of readiness to extend support,” the statement said, amid heightened political tension in Bangladesh.

Condition remains critical

Zia — Bangladesh’s first woman to serve as prime minister — has been hospitalised since November 23 after her lung infection worsened, leading to heart and respiratory complications. She was moved to the Coronary Care Unit and later placed on ventilation as her condition deteriorated further.

BNP leaders say her health remains fragile with little improvement. Vice-Chairman Ahmed Aazam Khan said doctors have “exhausted most medical options,” adding:

“There is nothing more to do except seek prayers from the nation.”

Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir echoed the grim assessment, saying Bangladeshi and foreign specialists are working “around the clock.” Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi said her condition has remained unchanged for days.

A long battle with chronic illness

Khaleda Zia has been struggling with multiple long-term health challenges, including liver disease, diabetes, kidney complications, arthritis and vision-related issues. She returned to Dhaka on May 6 after undergoing months of advanced treatment in London.

As the BNP leader fights for recovery, messages of support continue to pour in, with Modi’s statement drawing attention not just for its timing — but for the diplomatic undertone at a fraught moment in the region’s political landscape.