Thousands pay tribute at Khaleda Zia's grave a day after burial

Thousands of mourners, including women and children, thronged Zia Udyan on Thursday to pay tribute at the grave of former prime minister Begum Khaleda Zia, a day after her burial, amid tight security.

Her grave, located next to that of former president and BNP founder Ziaur Rahman at Zia Udyan, became a focal point for citizens wishing to pay their respects following her state funeral on Wednesday.

Many visitors came with family members, including children, to offer tributes and capture moments at the grave.

Initially, the general public was barred from entering the area following her burial. People began gathering outside the entrance of Zia Udyan on Thursday morning, but law enforcement restricted access, citing security concerns. Later, as the crowd grew, the restrictions were lifted, and visitors were allowed to pay their respects.

Many mourners, even those not active in BNP politics, came to touch the soil of the grave out of love and respect for Khaleda Zia.

Rakibul Islam, a private service holder from Bogura, travelled specifically to pay tribute. Standing at the entrance, he told the FE, "It feels like I lost my guardian. Since I understand politics, I have followed her as an icon in my life. I travelled just to pay tribute and see her grave with my own eyes."

He added that around a hundred people from Gabtali Upazila of Bogura had also come to Dhaka to visit the grave.

Women were prominently seen among the visitors. Shefali Khatun, who came with her husband and two children from 60 Feet Road, said, "I am not an active supporter, but I loved Zia. My only vote in life was cast for her in her home constituency."

Rehana Begum, a middle-aged woman, visited with a wreath and prayed before the grave. She told the FE that she draws inspiration from Khaleda Zia's advocacy for women's education, economic independence, and resistance, even though she herself is not politically active.

Abdullah Akash, who came with his wife and 12-year-old son, said, "We support the BNP but are not active in politics. I have come here to become part of history and preserve valuable memories. My son needs to know about those who struggled for people's rights and for a better country."

As the day progressed, the park was again closed in the evening to control the large influx of visitors.

Members of the RAB, police, and army were stationed at the entrance opposite the parliament building, while cleaning and security staff remained on duty inside the park. Before opening the area to the public, former state minister for home affairs Lutfuzzaman Babar visited Khaleda Zia's grave.

Speaking afterward, he said, "Khaleda Zia was uncompromising in terms of the security of people's lives and property. Even BNP leaders and activists would not be spared if they did wrong. Begum Khaleda Zia was such a leader."

Khaleda Zia passed away on Tuesday while undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka. Her funeral and burial were held on Wednesday, attended by countless people, regardless of political affiliation.

The octogenarian, who became a revered political leader following her husband's assassination, had been suffering from multiple health complications, including heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, liver cirrhosis, and kidney problems.

During the Awami League government, she was sentenced in two cases and remained imprisoned for more than two years. Despite severe health complications and requests from her doctors, she was not allowed to go abroad for treatment.

She was finally released after Sheikh Hasina flew to India on August 5, 2024, following a student-led uprising that toppled the Awami League government.

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