Who is Tariq Rehman? 17 years of exile, the image of the Dark Prince and now the new Sultan of Bangladesh:

Posts

News India Live, Digital Desk: The results of the historic general elections held in Bangladesh (February 2026) have written a new chapter in the politics of South Asia. Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) After the landslide victory, the party chairman Tariq Rahman Ready to become the next Prime Minister of the country. His return after spending 17 years in exile in London is no less than a film script.

1. Journey from ‘Dark Prince’ to ‘Prime Minister Designate’

Tariq Rehman was born on 20 November 1965. He belongs to a very influential political family:

Heritage: he former president Ziaur Rehman and was Prime Minister three times Khaleda Zia Is the eldest son of.

Bad name: During 2001–2006, when his mother was the Prime Minister, he was appointed Governor of Dhaka. ‘Dark Prince’ Was called. There were allegations that he ran the government from behind the scenes.

Exile: He moved to London in 2008 after being sentenced on corruption charges and in the 2004 grenade attack case.

2. Return to homeland after 17 years and promise of ‘clean politics’

Tariq Rahman returned to Bangladesh in December 2025, just before the death of his mother Khaleda Zia. As soon as he came back he completely changed his image:

Restrained Language: Now instead of inflammatory speeches he talks about ‘national reconciliation’ and ‘law and order’.

epic win: In the 2026 elections he Dhaka-17 And Bogra-6 Won both the seats with record votes. His party BNP has crossed the magic figure of majority (151) and won more than 180 seats.

3. What is ‘Rahman Plan’ for Hindus and minorities?

After the fall of Sheikh Hasina, there was global concern over attacks on minorities in Bangladesh. Tariq Rehman has clarified his stance on this:

Communal Harmony: Rahman has promised to create a Bangladesh where Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists and Christians all feel safe.

Action against culprits: He has warned his party workers not to indulge in any kind of violence or take out victory processions, but instead pray for the peace of the country.

4. How will be the relations with India?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Has congratulated Tariq Rehman on his victory. This change is strategically important for India:

Balanced Foreign Policy: Rahman has indicated that he wants to strengthen ties with India, but will keep Bangladesh’s interests paramount.

Emphasis on development: He has expressed his desire to work with India for ‘Common Development Goals’.