Bangladesh’s interim government has directed its major diplomatic missions in India, including the High Commission in New Delhi, to suspend visa services, citing security concerns. The move highlights the continuing strain in relations between Dhaka and New Delhi following months of political and diplomatic friction.
Foreign Affairs Adviser M Touhid Hossain said he instructed Bangladesh’s three missions in India to temporarily close their visa sections. Speaking at a media briefing on Thursday, he described the decision as a precautionary security measure. His remarks came after the Deputy High Commission in Kolkata restricted visa services overnight, following similar steps earlier taken by missions in New Delhi and Agartala.
However, officials clarified that business and work visas remain exempt from the suspension. Bangladesh continues to operate visa services at its diplomatic missions in Mumbai and Chennai, where no restrictions have been imposed so far.
India had earlier tightened visa rules for Bangladeshi nationals after August 5, 2024, also citing security-related concerns. Since then, travel between the two countries has faced repeated disruptions.
Sports diplomacy adds to growing bilateral friction
Relations between Dhaka and New Delhi have remained tense since the Awami League government of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina was removed after violent, student-led protests in July and August 2024. Since then, several diplomatic and symbolic disputes have emerged.
Tensions escalated further after Bangladesh declined to send its national cricket team to India for the T20 World Cup 2026, citing security concerns. The Bangladesh Cricket Board requested the International Cricket Council to relocate Bangladesh’s matches outside India. In a detailed letter, the board noted visa-related uncertainties for players, media personnel, fans and other stakeholders, while also referencing the government’s position.
Cricket venues became controversial after fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman was dropped from an Indian Premier League squad amid worsening ties, though authorities offered no official explanation. Subsequently, Bangladesh banned IPL broadcasts and formally informed the ICC of its refusal to play World Cup matches in India.
