Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, who was born in Jalpaiguri, West Bengal, passed away, evoking poignant memories among the town's residents. Zia was born in 1946 and spent her early years in Jalpaiguri, attending local schools before her family migrated to East Pakistan. Her father worked for a tea trading firm, and the family home was in Nayabasti. Local historians and businessmen confirmed details of her early life and education, noting the enduring emotional bonds with the town.