BNP sweeps Bangladesh polls. PM Modi, Mamata Banerjee greet PM-elect Tarique Rahman

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has recorded a sweeping victory in Bangladesh’s parliamentary elections, paving the way for party chief Tarique Rahman to take over as the country’s next Prime Minister . Rahman is the son of former prime minister Khaleda Zia , marking the return of the Zia family to the centre of Bangladesh’s politics. Unofficial and provisional results indicate that the BNP and its allies have won over 210 seats in the 300-member Jatiya Sangsad , comfortably crossing the majority mark.

The election was held to replace the interim administration headed by Muhammad Yunus , which assumed charge after the collapse of the Awami League government in August 2024 . With the Awami League suspended and barred from contesting, the polls effectively turned into a straight contest between the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami . Projections by local media and Election Commission briefings show Jamaat-e-Islami emerging as the main opposition , while smaller parties and independents secured only a limited presence in the new parliament.

In key constituency outcomes, Tarique Rahman won decisively from his home seat in Bogura , polling more than 2.16 lakh votes , more than double the tally of his nearest Jamaat rival. On the opposition benches, Shafiqur Rahman , president of Jamaat-e-Islami, secured victory from a Dhaka constituency , positioning him as the likely Leader of the Opposition in the new House.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Rahman on what he described as a “ decisive victory ” and later spoke to him over the phone. PM Modi said the result reflected the trust of the people of Bangladesh in Rahman’s leadership and reaffirmed India’s commitment to supporting a democratic, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh , while working with the new government to strengthen bilateral relations and advance shared development goals.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also congratulated Rahman and the people of Bangladesh, expressing hope that India–Bangladesh relations remain cordial and continue to deepen.

Meanwhile, deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina sharply criticised the polls, calling them a “ well-planned farce ”. Speaking from India, where she has been staying since fleeing Bangladesh last year, Hasina alleged widespread irregularities, voter intimidation and very low turnout , arguing that an election held without the Awami League could not be free or inclusive.

The outcome marks Bangladesh’s first national election without the Awami League in three decades and signals a new political chapter , with the BNP returning to power on a strong mandate and regional leaders welcoming the transition with messages of cooperation and goodwill.