Security Tightened Around BNP Chief Khaleda Zia as Her Health Condition Remains Serious

Security around BNP Chairperson and former prime minister Khaleda Zia has been significantly strengthened as she continues to undergo treatment at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka. Police erected a barricade in front of the hospital’s main gate around 2:00 a.m. today, restricting movement and preventing overcrowding in the area.

According to hospital sources, more than two dozen police personnel have been deployed to maintain order, ensure the smooth movement of patients and their families, and reinforce security around Khaleda Zia. Additionally, four members of the Special Security Force (SSF) inspected various sections of the hospital building for nearly three hours from midnight.

Earlier, the government declared Khaleda Zia a “very very important person,” a designation that allows for SSF deployment to ensure her protection.

Khaleda is currently admitted to a cabin on the fourth floor. Hospital authorities said the cabins adjacent to hers have been vacated for safety and to maintain a controlled environment around her treatment area.

She was admitted to Evercare Hospital on November 23 after being diagnosed with severe infections affecting her heart and lungs. The 80-year-old BNP chief is receiving intensive care in the Coronary Care Unit (CCU) under a medical board comprising both local and foreign specialists who continue to monitor her condition closely.

Late last night, as the doctors reviewed her latest health reports, senior BNP leaders met at the party chairperson’s office in Gulshan. A top BNP leader said acting chairman Tarique Rahman is preparing to return to Bangladesh, and the party is hopeful that a new Bangladeshi passport will be issued to him soon. He reportedly does not wish to use the one-time travel pass offered by the government.

Meeting sources noted that if doctors determine Khaleda is medically stable enough to be transported, she may be flown to London by air ambulance for advanced treatment. In that case, Tarique Rahman may not need to return to Dhaka immediately. However, party insiders stressed that no final decision has been taken, and the medical board will determine the next course of action based strictly on her evolving health condition.

Following the Standing Committee meeting, BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed reiterated that Tarique Rahman is expected to return to Bangladesh soon.

Khaleda Zia has long faced multiple chronic health problems, including liver cirrhosis, arthritis, diabetes, and complications involving her kidneys, lungs, heart, and eyes. She has a permanent pacemaker and has previously undergone stent placement for coronary blockages.

Expressing deep concern over her deteriorating health, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India stands ready to provide any support required.
“Deeply concerned to learn about the health of Begum Khaleda Zia, who has contributed to Bangladesh’s public life for many years,” Modi wrote on his verified X handle last night. “Our sincere prayers and best wishes for her speedy recovery. India stands ready to extend all possible support.”