Dhaka, Dec 31 (V7N) — The body of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia is being taken from Gulshan to Manik Mia Avenue for her state funeral in a car draped with the national flag of Bangladesh.

At 11:04 am on Wednesday, the motorcade carrying her body departed from BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman’s residence at house number 196, Gulshan Avenue.

Earlier in the morning, shortly before 9:00 am, Khaleda Zia’s body was brought from Evercare Hospital in Dhaka to Gulshan in a hearse wrapped in the Bangladesh flag. Later, it was taken to Tarique Rahman’s residence, where party leaders, activists, relatives and well-wishers paid their last respects. Tarique Rahman was accompanied by his daughter Zaima Rahman and other family members.

Meanwhile, a message from the press wing of the Chief Advisor said that Manik Mia Avenue has been fully prepared for Khaleda Zia’s funeral. The namaz-e-janaza will be held on the inner grounds of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, as well as across its outer premises and the entire Manik Mia Avenue area.

The statement said arrangements have been made to allow people from all walks of life to pay their respects to the national leader and participate in the funeral. Necessary measures have also been taken so that members of the public can remain on surrounding roads near Manik Mia Avenue.

According to the plan, Begum Khaleda Zia will be buried with full state honors beside the grave of martyred President and freedom fighter Ziaur Rahman at around 3:30 pm.

At the time of burial, Khaleda Zia’s family members, senior state officials, government advisers, foreign guests, diplomats, and BNP-nominated political leaders will be present. To ensure the smooth completion of the funeral and burial, only designated individuals will be allowed entry to restricted areas. Public movement in Zia Udyan at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar will remain restricted until the funeral proceedings conclude.

END/SMA/AJ