New Delhi, February 13, 2026 — Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairman Tarique Rahman on Friday, extending his “warm congratulations” on the party’s decisive victory in Bangladesh’s national parliamentary elections. The phone call and subsequent social media posts mark a significant diplomatic outreach as Bangladesh undergoes its first major political transition since the 2024 student-led uprising.
Reaffirming Strategic Ties
During the conversation, Prime Minister Modi highlighted that the BNP’s victory reflects the deep trust the people of Bangladesh have placed in Rahman’s leadership. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to standing as a reliable neighbor, supporting a “democratic, progressive, and inclusive” Bangladesh.
“I look forward to working with you to strengthen our multifaceted relations and advance our common development goals,” the Prime Minister stated, emphasizing the shared historical and cultural bonds between the two nations.
A Landslide Victory for BNP
The BNP, led by the 60-year-old Tarique Rahman, secured a commanding two-thirds majority, winning at least 212 seats in the 300-member Jatiya Sangsad. This historic win brings the party back to power after 20 years and follows the return of Rahman from a 17-year exile in London.
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Election Results: The BNP alliance secured over 200 seats, while the rival alliance led by the Islamist party Jamaat-e-Islami won approximately 77 seats.
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Voter Mandate: The election also included a referendum on a new democratic charter, which was endorsed by roughly 60% of voters, signaling a public desire for constitutional reforms and term limits for the prime minister.
Diplomatic Significance
India’s early recognition of the verdict is seen by analysts as an “olive branch” to the new administration in Dhaka. Relations had faced uncertainty following the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who remains in exile in India.
The BNP expressed its gratitude for the Prime Minister’s gesture, with senior party leaders stating that they look forward to a era of strengthened bilateral relations focused on peace, progress, and mutual prosperity. Tarique Rahman is expected to be sworn in as the next Prime Minister of Bangladesh as early as Saturday.
