'Deeply concerned': PM Modi reacts to ex-Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia’s critical health, offers ‘all possible support’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday expressed deep concern over the health of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, extending his best wishes for her speedy recovery.

“Deeply concerned to learn about the health of Begum Khaleda Zia, who has contributed to Bangladesh’s public life for many years. Our sincere prayers and best wishes for her speedy recovery,” PM Modi posted on X.

Deeply concerned to learn about the health of Begum Khaleda Zia, who has contributed to Bangladesh’s public life for many years. Our sincere prayers and best wishes for her speedy recovery. India stands ready to extend all possible support, in whatever way we can.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 1, 2025

He added that India stands ready to provide “all possible support, in whatever way we can,” reflecting the close ties between the two countries.

PM Modi’s remarks came hours after Zia’s party leaders reportedly said that she is “extremely unwell” and that the former Bangladesh prime minister has been placed on ventilation.

Ex-Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia in critical condition

Zia, 80, remains in critical condition after being hospitalised with a severe chest infection affecting her heart and lungs.

Admitted to a private hospital on November 23, Zia was moved to the coronary care unit four days later as her health complications worsened.

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A local news portal quoted BNP Vice-chairman Advocate Ahmed Aazam Khan as saying that Zia’s condition had deteriorated and that she was put on ventilation.

“She is in a very critical condition. There is nothing more to do except seek prayers from the whole nation,” he told reporters outside Evercare Hospital in Dhaka.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir confirmed her serious condition, adding, “She is extremely unwell. The entire nation is praying for her recovery… She is seriously ill, and our doctors are making every possible effort. Local and foreign specialists are involved in her treatment. They are trying their best.”

Zia has been battling multiple health issues, including liver and kidney problems, diabetes, arthritis, and eye-related illnesses. She had returned to Bangladesh earlier this year after four months of advanced treatment in London.

Her only son and BNP acting chairman, Tarique Rahman, has been residing in London since 2008, while her other son, Arafat Rahman, passed away from cardiac arrest earlier this year.

With inputs from agencies