‘People of Bangladesh trust your leadership’: PM Modi lauds Tarique Rahman for BNP’s win

By Admin

13 Feb, 2026

The 2026 Bangladesh parliamentary elections have delivered a decisive political mandate, with the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) securing a commanding lead in the 13th national parliamentary election. As vote counting continued early this morning, the BNP had already won 151 constituencies, marking a landslide performance in what is being described as a pivotal moment for the South Asian nation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended congratulations to BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman, stating that the people of Bangladesh have shown trust in his leadership. The message signals a renewed phase in India–Bangladesh relations amid shifting political dynamics in Dhaka.

BNP Secures Resounding Mandate

According to local television reports, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party has secured a majority in the 299 contested parliamentary seats. While the Bangladesh Election Commission is yet to formally announce the final results, unofficial counts show BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman winning two constituencies   Dhaka-17 and Bogra-6.

The election outcome represents a major political shift, especially as this is the first parliamentary poll since the 2024 Gen Z-led uprising that toppled long-time Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The new mandate is widely expected to restore political stability and re-establish governance momentum in the country.

A Reconfigured Political Landscape

For the first time in three decades, the Awami League’s iconic “boat” symbol was absent from the ballot after the party’s suspension following the collapse of the previous administration.

In its place, a transformed political contest emerged. The BNP faced a strong 11-party alliance led by Jamaat-e-Islami along with the youth-driven National Citizen Party (NCP). Despite this competitive field, the BNP managed to secure a clear and convincing majority, reinforcing Tarique Rahman’s political comeback.

Key Election Numbers at a Glance

The 2026 general election was one of the largest democratic exercises in Bangladesh’s history.

Eligible voters: 127.7 million, including 5 million first-time voters
Voter turnout (2 PM): 47.91%, as reported by the Election Commission
Parliamentary seats: 299 contested (1 postponed due to a candidate’s death)
Security deployment: Nearly 900,000 personnel nationwide
Unique feature: Concurrent national referendum on constitutional reforms

Voting began at 7:30 AM local time across 299 constituencies and continued until 4:30 PM. The Election Commission cancelled polling in one constituency following the death of a candidate.

A total of 50 political parties participated in the election, with 1,755 candidates contesting under party banners and 273 independent candidates also in the fray.

A Crucial Turning Point for Bangladesh

The 2026 election is being viewed as a defining chapter in Bangladesh’s democratic journey. The high security presence and the simultaneous constitutional referendum reflect the significance of the moment.

With the BNP poised to form the next government, expectations are high for political stability, economic reforms, and improved governance. Prime Minister Modi’s congratulatory message further underlines the importance of strong regional cooperation between India and Bangladesh in the coming years.

As the official results are awaited, the overwhelming mandate signals that voters have opted for decisive leadership and a fresh political direction   marking a new era in Bangladesh’s evolving democratic landscape.