PM Modi congratulates Tarique Rahman on BNP's decisive win in Bangladesh polls

In a post on social media while tagging Rahman, PM Modi said India will always stand in support of a "democratic, progressive and inclusive" Bangladesh. "I convey my warm congratulations to Mr. Tarique Rahman on leading BNP to a decisive victory in the Parliamentary elections in Bangladesh," he said. 

"This victory shows the trust of the people of Bangladesh in your leadership," the prime minister said in his X (previously Twitter) post. "I look forward to working with you to strengthen our multifaceted relations and advance our common development goals."

Although the official results are yet to be declared, the BNP is set for a massive victory and has already gained two-third majority in the 300-member parliament. According to local media reports, the BNP has already won 212 seats. On the other hand, the 11-party coalition led by Jamaat-e-Islami has failed to impress in the elections, winning only around 70 seats.

With BNP all set for a massive win, Rahman is set to become Bangladesh next prime minister. Rahman, who returned to Bangladesh in December last year after over 17 years in self-exile, will be the first male prime minister of the country in more 36 years.

According to the Bangladesh Election Commission, Thursday's polling witnessed a voter turnout of 47.91 per cent. However, the final tally is likely to be changed. "There were debates over turnout percentages in past elections as well. Please don't question it now," Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasur Uddin said on Thursday.

These elections, which were the first since the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government after the July 2024 uprising, saw a participation of more than 2,000 candidates. The Bangladesh Election Commission had also deployed nearly 1 million security personnel for the polling which was held from 7.30 am to 4.30 pm (local time) on Thursday.