The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) led by Tarique Rahman has secured a decisive victory in Bangladesh’s parliamentary elections, marking a significant political shift in the country. The outcome comes in the wake of political uncertainty following the fall of the Sheikh Hasina-led government and is being viewed as a turning point in Dhaka’s domestic and foreign policy trajectory.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday congratulated Rahman through a post on X, expressing hope for stronger bilateral engagement. New Delhi is interpreting the BNP’s victory as a potential “reset” in India-Bangladesh relations after months of strained ties under the interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus.
Diplomatic relations between the two neighbours had reportedly weakened following the political transition in Dhaka, amid concerns over attacks on minorities and Bangladesh’s perceived outreach toward Pakistan. With the BNP poised to form government, Indian officials expect greater regional stability and renewed cooperation on key security matters, particularly in curbing cross-border insurgency affecting India’s northeastern states.
Rahman has signalled a commitment to maintaining balanced foreign relations while prioritising Bangladesh’s national interests. His reported distancing from pro-Pakistan groups such as Jamaat-e-Islami is being seen as a positive indicator by Indian policymakers concerned about security and extremist networks in the region.
Economic and strategic cooperation are also expected to gain momentum. Key issues such as transit connectivity for India’s northeastern states through Bangladesh and the long-pending Teesta water-sharing agreement may see renewed dialogue. Analysts believe the BNP’s return to power could also recalibrate Dhaka’s engagement with China and Pakistan, offering India an opportunity to rebuild strategic influence in its eastern neighbourhood.