Bangladesh Crisis: Khaleda Zia Passes Away As BNP Eyes Polls; Indrajit Kundu Analyses Impact

In this special report, India Today's Indrajit Kundu confirms the passing of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Khaleda Zia at the age of 80. Kundu reports that Zia, a 'towering figure' and three-time PM, died in Dhaka after a prolonged illness. The report highlights the political significance of her son, Tarique Rahman, returning to Bangladesh after 17 years in exile to see his ailing mother and lead the BNP ahead of the February 12 elections. Kundu also discusses the 'political vacuum' and the BNP's resurgence following Sheikh Hasina's exile to India. He notes that Tarique Rahman's return is 'politically very, very symbolic' as the party prepares to take charge, with supporters converging on the streets of Dhaka.