New Delhi dispatches a high-level delegation to Dhaka for the installation of Tarique Rahman, signaling a key diplomatic engagement.
The arrival of Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla in Dhaka marks a significant moment in India-Bangladesh relations. Birla will represent India at the swearing-in ceremony of Tarique Rahman, who is set to become the next Prime Minister of Bangladesh. This event follows the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)-led alliance's substantial victory in the recent parliamentary elections. India's participation underscores its acknowledgment of the electoral outcome and its commitment to maintaining diplomatic ties with its neighbor.
Political Shift in Bangladesh
The recent parliamentary elections in Bangladesh have resulted in a decisive mandate for the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by Tarique Rahman.
The BNP-led alliance secured 212 seats, indicating a strong majority.
Tarique Rahman is slated to assume the role of Prime Minister, a notable change in Bangladesh's political landscape.
The elections were the first since a political upheaval in July 2024, which led to the departure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
India's Diplomatic Representation
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla will be the primary representative for India at the oath-taking ceremony. He is accompanied by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Secretary-General of Lok Sabha Utpal Kumar Singh, reflecting the importance India places on this diplomatic event.
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"The Speaker's participation at this important event underscores the deep and enduring friendship between the peoples of India and Bangladesh, reaffirming India's steadfast commitment to the democratic values that bind our two nations." - Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) statement.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was invited but could not attend due to prior commitments. He did, however, extend congratulations to Tarique Rahman via social media following the election results.
The Swearing-In Ceremony
The ceremony is scheduled to take place at the Southern Plaza of the Bangladesh Parliament House. Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin will administer the oath of office to Tarique Rahman and his cabinet. This marks a departure from the traditional practice of holding such ceremonies at the presidential palace. The newly elected members of the Bangladesh Parliament are also slated to be sworn in on the same day.
Bilateral Relations Under New Leadership
The change in government in Bangladesh is expected to lead to close observation of the diplomatic trajectory between India and Bangladesh. The BNP has expressed appreciation for India's acknowledgment of Tarique Rahman's leadership and the election results. India has also previously voiced concerns regarding the safety of Bangladesh's Hindu population, a matter that will likely remain pertinent.
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The participation of Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla at the swearing-in ceremony of Bangladesh's Prime Minister-elect Tarique Rahman signifies India's official recognition of the new government and its commitment to bilateral ties.
The composition of the Indian delegation, including the Foreign Secretary, highlights the strategic importance of Bangladesh for India.
Key Individuals and Groups
| Entity | Role / Affiliation |
|---|---|
| Tarique Rahman | Prime Minister-elect of Bangladesh, BNP Chairman |
| Om Birla | Speaker of India's Lok Sabha |
| Vikram Misri | Foreign Secretary of India |
| Utpal Kumar Singh | Secretary-General of Lok Sabha |
| Mohammed Shahabuddin | President of Bangladesh |
| Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) | Political party that won the election |
| Narendra Modi | Prime Minister of India |
Expert Commentary
While direct expert analysis from the provided text is limited, the MEA's statement suggests an official Indian perspective emphasizing "deep and enduring friendship" and commitment to "democratic values." The invitation extended to leaders from 13 countries, including India, by the interim government's Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, indicates an effort by the new Bangladeshi administration to foster broad international engagement from the outset.
Sources
India News - The Times of India: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/india-deputes-om-birla-vikram-misri-to-dhaka-for-bangladesh-pm-elect-tarique-rahmans-swearing-in/articleshow/128379302.cms
NDTV: https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/lok-sabha-speaker-om-birla-to-represent-india-at-tarique-rahmans-oath-ceremony-in-bangladesh-11006775
Dhaka Tribune: https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/foreign-affairs/403429/indian-speaker-to-attend-swearing-in-of-tarique
The Financial Express: https://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/om-birla-to-represent-india-at-tarique-rahmans-swearing-in-ceremony-in-dhaka-heres-why-pm-modi-wont-attend/4144006/
BusinessToday: https://www.businesstoday.in/india/story/lok-sabha-speaker-om-birla-to-attend-tarique-rahman-swearing-in-in-bangladesh-516187-2026-02-15
News18: https://www.news18.com/india/lok-sabha-speaker-om-birla-to-represent-india-at-bangladesh-pm-elect-tarique-rahmans-swearing-in-9905123.html
The Week: https://www.theweek.in/news/world/2026/02/15/lok-sabha-speaker-om-birla-to-attend-tarique-rahman-s-swearing-in-ceremony-instead-of-pm-modi-here-is-why.html
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