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BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman is returning to Bangladesh after 17 years in exile, arriving from London under tight security as the party prepares a massive public reception in Dhaka.
BNP’s Tarique Rahman was seen at Heathrow Airport in London late Wednesday as he prepared to board a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight to Dhaka.
New Delhi,UPDATED: Dec 25, 2025 03:00 IST
Tarique Rahman, the acting chairman of the Bangladesh ist Party, was seen at Heathrow Airport in London late Wednesday as he prepared to board a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight to Dhaka, ending nearly 17 years in exile amid what party leaders describe as serious security concerns.
According to BNP media cell sources, Tarique Rahman entered Heathrow Airport at 10:18 pm Bangladesh time on Wednesday (December 24). Earlier in the evening, at around 8:05 pm, he left his London residence with his family under heightened security arrangements.
Rahman is travelling with his wife, Dr Zubaida Rahman, and their daughter, Zyma Rahman. Party sources said all logistical preparations for the journey have been completed and special security measures are in place throughout the trip.
If the schedule holds, the Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight, BG-202, is expected to depart London at 12:15 am Bangladesh time. Aviation officials said the aircraft is scheduled to land first in Sylhet at 9:55 am, remain there for about an hour, and then depart for Dhaka at 10:55 am. The final arrival at Hazrat Shahjalal Airport is expected at 11:45 am.
Security has been tightened along the route and at key locations, with a large deployment of law enforcement personnel reported in the Purbachal area.
BNP sources cited intelligence inputs pointing to potential threats, prompting additional precautions.
Party leaders said preparations are underway for what they describe as the largest public reception in the BNP’s history. The party expects more than five million supporters to gather in Dhaka to welcome its acting chairman. From the airport, Rahman is scheduled to travel directly to Purbachal, where arrangements for the reception are underway.
BNP sources confirmed that a mass reception has been organised along the Purbachal Highway Express area near Kuril, with party workers coordinating to ensure discipline and security. Law enforcement agencies have also taken multiple measures to maintain order.
Tarique Rahman left Bangladesh in 2008 after being released from prison and subsequently moved to the United Kingdom, where he has lived since.
While his wife has returned to Bangladesh on several occasions over the years, Rahman himself has remained abroad — until now — making this return a significant political moment for the BNP.
- Ends
Published By:
Aashish Vashistha
Published On:
Dec 25, 2025
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