With former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia reported to be in a very critical condition, PM Narendra Modi expressed concerns about her failing health and offered all possible assistance to her. Modi’s gesture is significant as Zia has had a troubled past with India in contrast to her rival Sheikh Hasina’s warm and friendly ties with India. Zia’s party BNP accused the Indian govt of undermining democracy in Bangladesh by backing an “authoritarian” Hasina who was deposed last year and forced to flee to India.“Deeply concerned to learn about the health of Begum Khaleda Zia, who has contributed to Bangladesh’s public life for many years. Our sincere prayers and best wishes for her speedy recovery. India stands ready to extend all possible support, in whatever way we can,” said Modi in a post on X.Significantly, a team of Chinese doctors, apparently sent by Beijing, arrived in Dhaka on Monday to help in Zia’s treatment.This is not the first time Modi has reached out to Zia and her party. He had a meeting with her during his visit to Dhaka in 2015 that govt described as “full spectrum outreach” on Bangladesh. Modi’s message will also be seen as an acknowledgement of the new reality in Bangladesh – and re-evaluation of India’s position – which goes to polls early next year and the possible return to power of BNP, which is expected to gain majorly from Hasina’s ouster. According to a local survey last week, as reported by Prothom Alo, there’s a tight race currently between the BNP and the Jamaat-e-Islami, with the BNP holding a slight three-point lead. India has on several occasions said in the recent past it seeks fair and inclusive polls in Bangladesh.With his outreach, Modi is also doubling down on India’s position that it remains committed to the best interest of Bangladesh, including peace, democracy, inclusion and stability in that country and will continue to engage with all stakeholders. BNP too has said it wants “balanced and respectful” ties with India.