Bangladesh has decided to further restrict visa services for Indian citizens, citing growing security concerns and alleged threats from extremist groups. The move follows a series of security-related incidents involving Bangladeshi diplomatic missions in India.
According to official sources, Bangladesh has temporarily closed visa sections at three additional diplomatic locations in India. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the updated restrictions came into effect on Thursday. Under the new policy, all visa categories have been suspended, except for business and employment visas.
The Bangladeshi Foreign Office stated that the Deputy High Commission in Kolkata has completely halted consular and visa services. Additionally, all visa services, including tourist visas, have been suspended at Bangladeshi missions in Mumbai and Chennai.
Officials clarified that visa operations have only been stopped in cities where security threats or incidents were reported. They emphasized that the decision is purely based on safety concerns for diplomatic staff and facilities and is not intended to damage bilateral relations with India.
Previously, on December 22, Bangladesh had already suspended visa and consular services at its High Commission in New Delhi, the Assistant High Commission in Agartala, and a visa center in Siliguri.
Bangladesh authorities stated that the situation is under close review, and visa services may resume once security conditions improve. No timeline has been announced.
The decision is expected to affect cross-border travel, particularly tourism and personal visits, though Bangladesh maintains that diplomatic security remains its top priority.
