Khaleda Zia's Complex Legacy: Pro-Pakistan Tilt, China Ties, and Tarique Rahman's Future

• Khaleda Zia's three terms as Bangladesh PM strained India-Bangladesh relations, despite her domestic role in stabilizing BNP and restoring democracy.
• Her government's strong pro-Pakistan orientation led to increased Pakistani intelligence footprint and insurgent activity affecting India's Northeast.
• Zia's Bangladeshi nationalism, often opposing India, hindered regional economic and strategic opportunities.
• Defence deals with China (tanks, frigates) deepened Beijing's strategic influence in Dhaka, adding complexity for India.
• Attention now on her son Tarique Rahman, whose recent pragmatic remarks offer hope for a shift in future India-Bangladesh ties.

Why It Matters: Khaleda Zia's legacy presented challenges for India, but her son Tarique Rahman might usher in a pragmatic shift.