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

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. After the landslide victory of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), party chairman Tarique Rahman is set 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. Rahman, the journeyman from ‘Dark Prince’ to ‘Prime Minister Designate’, was born on 20 November 1965. He belongs to a very influential political family: Heritage: He is the eldest son of former President Ziaur Rahman and three-time Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. Bad Name: During 2001-2006, when his mother was the Prime Minister, he was called the ‘Dark Prince’ of Dhaka. There were allegations that he ran the government 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 he talks about ‘national reconciliation’ and ‘law and order’ instead of inflammatory speeches. Historic victory: In the 2026 elections, he has won both Dhaka-17 and Bogra-6 seats with record votes. His party BNP has crossed the magic figure of majority (151) and won more than 180 seats.3. What is the ‘Rahman Plan’ for Hindus and minorities? After the fall of Sheikh Hasina, concern was raised globally over the attacks on minorities in Bangladesh. Tariq Rahman has made his stand clear on this:Communal harmony: Rahman has promised that he will create a Bangladesh where Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists and Christians all feel safe. Action against the culprits: He has warned his party workers not to indulge in any kind of violence or take out victory processions, but pray for the peace of the country.4. How will relations be 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 he will keep Bangladesh’s interests paramount. Emphasis on development: He has expressed willingness to work with India for ‘Common Development Goals’.