Dhaka(The COW News Digital) Bangladesh has suspended most visa services for Indian nationals, citing heightened security concerns following threats reportedly issued by extremist groups in India. The decision, announced by the Bangladeshi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, marks a significant escalation in diplomatic tensions between the two neighboring countries.
According to officials in Dhaka, the interim government has ordered the closure of visa sections at Bangladeshi diplomatic missions in India due to potential security risks. The move has taken immediate effect, with all categories of visas halted except for limited business and employment-related visas.
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A spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the decision was taken purely on security grounds. “The safety of our diplomatic staff and national interests is our top priority. Given the current environment, it was necessary to restrict visa operations until the situation improves,” the spokesperson said.
The development comes amid growing strain in Bangladesh–India relations, with Dhaka expressing concern over what it described as increasingly aggressive rhetoric and hostile actions originating from across the border. Bangladeshi officials view the visa restrictions as a firm response to what they term New Delhi’s confrontational posture.
Security analysts say the suspension of visa services could impact cross-border travel, trade engagement, and people-to-people contact, which has traditionally played a role in maintaining bilateral ties. However, the Bangladeshi government maintains that national security considerations must take precedence over routine diplomatic and economic exchanges.
Indian nationals seeking tourist, medical, student, or family visit visas will now face a complete suspension until further notice. Only applicants with verified business or employment requirements may be considered under a tightened screening process, officials said.
The decision has drawn attention in diplomatic circles, as visa facilitation has often been used as a barometer of bilateral relations in South Asia. Observers note that such restrictions signal a serious downturn in trust and cooperation between Dhaka and New Delhi.
So far, Indian authorities have not issued an official response to the announcement. However, regional experts warn that prolonged visa restrictions could further strain ties and complicate dialogue on broader regional issues, including trade, water sharing, and border management.
Bangladesh’s interim leadership has emphasized that the measures are temporary but necessary. Officials added that normal visa services could resume once security concerns are adequately addressed and assurances are provided.
The situation underscores the fragile nature of regional diplomacy in South Asia, where political rhetoric, security threats, and domestic pressures often have immediate cross-border consequences.
