Tarique Rahman Returns to Bangladesh After 17 Years: A New Political Battle, Positive Signs for India?

DHAKA: Tarique Rahman, son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and a key leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), is set to return to Bangladesh after nearly 17 years. His arrival has sparked massive excitement among BNP supporters and is being seen as a potential turning point in the country’s volatile political landscape.

Rahman’s return comes at a time of significant instability in Bangladesh. Violent protests are on the rise, the Jamaat-e-Islami party has strengthened its presence, and the interim government led by Mohammad Yunus is navigating tense political waters ahead of the national elections scheduled for February 2026. With Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League sidelined from the electoral process, radical groups are attempting to consolidate influence, creating concerns both domestically and for India.

Hope for India
Delhi is closely watching Rahman’s return, seeing it as a chance for a government recognized by the people to take shape. BNP’s resurgence could restore regional balance and improve Indo-Bangladesh relations, which have strained under Yunus’ interim administration due to repeated anti-India rhetoric and the increasing influence of pro-Pakistan elements in the country.

Balanced Foreign Policy Vision
Rahman has presented his “Bangladesh First” foreign policy framework, emphasizing that neither Delhi nor Rawalpindi will dominate his priorities, signaling a balanced approach between India and Pakistan. He has also questioned the legitimacy of Yunus’ interim government and rejected any alliance with Jamaat-e-Islami, drawing a clear line between BNP and extremist factions.

Impact on Extremist Groups
Reports from Dhaka indicate that Rahman’s return has unsettled Jamaat-e-Islami and other hardline groups, who fear they cannot fill the political vacuum left by Sheikh Hasina’s exit. While violent clashes between BNP and extremist factions cannot be ruled out, Rahman’s presence introduces a new dynamic ahead of the elections.

Challenges Ahead
Tarique Rahman now faces multiple challenges: consolidating power, stabilizing a politically fractured nation, addressing the expectations of young voters, ensuring minority safety, and reviving Bangladesh’s struggling economy. The international community, particularly India, is closely observing whether Rahman can steer Bangladesh towards stability. A successful return could bring regional stability; failure could plunge the country deeper into chaos.

Rahman’s return is not just a political event; it is a test of leadership that may reshape Bangladesh’s future and its relations with the region.