Indian media watch closely Tarique’s return

Staff Reporter :

Tarique Rahman, acting chairman of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), landed in Dhaka on Thursday, marking his first return from London after nearly 17 years in exile.
Indian media have widely covered the event, highlighting its significance for both Bangladesh’s domestic politics and regional diplomacy.

Times of India reported massive crowds greeting Rahman at Hazrat Shah Jalal International Airport, noting his speech invoked Martin Luther King Jr. and hinted at a new strategic vision for the party.
The outlet described the scene as an emotional homecoming, signaling his re-entry into frontline politics.

India Today focused on the implications for India-Bangladesh relations. Analysts pointed out that Rahman’s return comes amid ongoing political turbulence and could shift regional diplomatic priorities.
With the general elections scheduled for early 2026, his presence may strengthen BNP’s electoral prospects and reshape the competitive landscape.

Zee News framed the homecoming as a watershed moment, emphasising the potential for significant changes in Bangladesh’s political dynamics.

International wire services cited by Indian outlets highlighted the massive turnout and emphasised Rahman’s stature as a potential prime ministerial contender.
Al Jazeera, carried by Indian portals, described the return as “historic,” with BNP leaders organizing large rallies to consolidate support.

Reports repeatedly emphasised the public enthusiasm, noting that the reception reflected widespread anticipation and loyalty among party supporters.
Indian media are closely monitoring how this political development will influence regional ties, electoral strategies, and the broader balance of power in Bangladesh, signaling a pivotal moment in South Asian politics.

Meanwhile, relations between Bangladesh and India have grown increasingly strained since the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government, and tensions with the interim government have been even more acute.

Analysts note that India has traditionally maintained warmer ties with the Awami League, while its relationship with the BNP has been less cordial, given the party’s critical stance on several issues that India views sensitively.

Since the transition to the interim government, bilateral relations have further cooled. India has consistently expressed its preference for dealing with an elected government.
Recent protests following the killing of a Hindu man in Mymensingh have added another layer of tension, prompting both countries to summon each other’s envoys.

With the interim government announcing elections scheduled for February 12 and continuing to call for an inclusive poll, the political landscape is already tense.

Tarique Rahman’s re-entry into Bangladesh’s political scene introduces a new dimension. Indian policymakers are expected to watch his movements closely and reassess their approach depending on which party comes to power.