Bangladesh: What Tarique Rahman’s “Plan” Signals for Hindus and India

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader Tarique Rahman, delivering his first speech on home soil in 17 years, invoked the words of Martin Luther King Jr. to unveil what he called “I have a plan” — a message aimed at unity, security and democratic renewal amid deep political churn.

Returning to Dhaka after years in exile, Rahman’s address came at a fraught moment: minority anxieties following mob violence, strained ties with India, and uncertainty under the interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus. Widely viewed as a frontrunner for the premiership, Rahman used the moment to project inclusivity and reassure both domestic audiences and regional stakeholders.

Homecoming Heavy on Optics, Light on Pomp

Rahman’s return was carefully choreographed for symbolism. He briefly stood barefoot at the airport, lifting a handful of soil in reverence, and later chose a simple chair at his reception — a deliberate break from the pageantry associated with Bangladesh’s past leadership. Addressing a massive crowd, he framed his vision in three themes: safety, inclusion and unity.

What the “Plan” Says to Hindus

Against the backdrop of recent attacks — including the killings of Dipu Chandra Das and Amrit Mondal — Rahman spoke of a “safe Bangladesh” for all faiths. He named Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists and Christians, stressing that every citizen should be able to leave home and return safely. His language echoed minority concerns without directly condemning specific incidents, a choice that drew both relief and criticism.

Human rights groups have flagged a surge in violence affecting minorities, particularly women and children. Rahman’s repeated calls to avoid provocation and violence were seen as an attempt to calm tensions, even as expectations remain high for explicit action should the BNP assume power.

Reading the Message for India

Though India was not mentioned by name, the subtext was notable. Rahman’s emphasis on democracy and pluralism contrasts with the Awami League’s ban from contesting the February elections and the interim government’s perceived tilt toward Pakistan and China. He has publicly questioned the legitimacy of long-term foreign policy decisions without an electoral mandate and articulated a “Bangladesh First” line — “Not Dilli, not Pindi.”

Importantly, the BNP has distanced itself from Jamaat-e-Islami, criticised its 1971 role, and softened rhetoric toward India — a shift New Delhi may view cautiously but positively after years of backing Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League.

What Comes Next

Opinion polls suggest the BNP is well placed, with Jamaat not far behind. Rahman’s challenge will be converting conciliatory rhetoric into governance that restores public safety, protects minorities and steadies foreign relations. His exile may be over; whether his “plan” can unify a polarised Bangladesh — and reassure neighbours — is the test ahead.