Bangladesh has decided to further restrict visa services for Indian citizens, citing security risks and alleged threats from Hindu extremist groups. The decision comes after several security-related incidents involving Bangladeshi diplomatic missions in India.
According to official sources, Bangladesh has temporarily closed visa sections at three more diplomatic locations in India. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the updated restrictions came into force on Thursday. Under the new policy, all types of visas have been suspended, except for business and employment visas.
The Bangladeshi Foreign Office stated that the Deputy High Commission in Kolkata has completely stopped providing consular and visa services. In addition, all visa services, including tourist visas, have been suspended at Bangladeshi missions in Mumbai and Chennai.
Officials explained that visa operations have been halted only in cities where security threats or incidents were reported. They stressed that the decision is based solely on safety concerns for diplomatic staff and facilities, and not aimed at harming bilateral relations.
This is not the first time Bangladesh has taken such measures. On December 22, the country had already suspended visa and consular services at its High Commission in New Delhi, the Assistant High Commission in Agartala, and a visa center located in Siliguri.
Bangladesh authorities said the situation is being closely monitored, and visa services may resume once security conditions improve. No specific timeline has been given for the restoration of full visa operations.
The move is expected to impact travel between the two neighboring countries, particularly for tourists and individuals visiting for personal reasons. However, Bangladesh has maintained that the safety of its diplomatic missions remains the top priority.
