Diplomatic services between India and Bangladesh have faced a sudden disruption. Bangladesh has temporarily suspended all consular and visa services at its missions in New Delhi, Agartala, and Siliguri. The decision follows a protest outside the Bangladesh High Commission in the Indian capital, raising fresh concerns over security and bilateral sensitivities.
What Services Has Bangladesh Suspended?
Bangladesh has halted all visa issuance and consular work at three key locations in India. These include the High Commission in New Delhi and Assistant High Commissions in Agartala and Siliguri.
A notice issued by the Bangladesh mission in Delhi stated, “Due to unavoidable circumstances, all consular & visa services from the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi are temporarily suspended until further notice.”
Officials have not announced when services will resume.
Why Did Bangladesh Take This Step?
The suspension comes days after members of the extremist group Akhand Hindu Rashtra Sena staged a protest outside the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi.
Protesters raised slogans against Bangladesh and reportedly issued threats toward the Bangladesh High Commissioner to India, M Riaz Hamidullah. The demonstration drew immediate attention from security agencies and diplomatic officials.
The protest was linked to outrage over the killing of a Hindu man in Bangladesh last week.
What Triggered the Protest?
The group said it was protesting the killing of Dipu Chandra Das, a 27-year-old Hindu worker in Bangladesh. His body was reportedly set on fire after he was lynched, triggering anger and calls for justice.
The protesters demanded stronger protection for minorities in Bangladesh and sought accountability for the killing.
India’s Response to the Protest
India’s Ministry of External Affairs addressed the incident soon after. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said authorities acted swiftly to maintain order.
“There was no attempt to breach the fence or create a security situation,” Jaiswal said.
He added, “The police stationed at the spot dispersed the group after a few minutes.”
Jaiswal also reiterated that the Indian government remains committed to the safety and security of all foreign missions and diplomats.
Impact on Travellers and Applicants
The suspension has affected visa applicants, travellers, students, and business visitors planning to travel to Bangladesh. With no clarity on reopening timelines, many are now facing uncertainty.
Applicants have been advised to wait for official updates before making travel plans.
Diplomatic Sensitivity Between India and Bangladesh
India and Bangladesh share close diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties. Any disruption to consular services is seen as a sensitive issue, especially amid rising concerns over minority safety and regional stability.
Diplomatic experts say such suspensions are rare and usually linked to security assessments.
What Happens Next?
Bangladesh has said the suspension will remain in place until further notice. Authorities are expected to review the security situation before resuming services.
Both sides have avoided escalating rhetoric, suggesting efforts to manage the situation diplomatically.
For now, visa services remain suspended, and applicants are advised to monitor official announcements closely.