Dhaka, Dec. 30 -- Bangladesh plunged into deep mourning on Tuesday as people from all walks of life--political leaders, business figures, social and cultural activists, and religious organisations -- mourned the passing of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, one of the most influential figures in the country's political history.

Reflecting the scale of national grief, the interim government led by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus announced a three-day national mourning, along with a public holiday on Wednesday, expressing profound shock at the loss.

Condolences also poured in from different countries.

Diplomatic missions stationed in Dhaka and several heads of government expressed their deep sympathies at the d...