Bangladesh Suspends Visa Services in India Amid Diplomatic Tensions

Bangladesh has temporarily suspended visa services at its major diplomatic missions in India. The decision affects the High Commission in New Delhi, as well as the missions in Kolkata and Agartala, according to Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Adviser M Touhid Hossain.

Speaking at a media briefing on Thursday, Hossain said the closure is due to “security concerns.” He added that the suspension is temporary and focuses only on visa sections. Business and work visas are still being processed.

Visa Services Restricted in Some Indian Cities

Visa operations at the Bangladesh missions in Mumbai and Chennai are continuing. However, services in New Delhi, Kolkata, and Agartala have been paused. The temporary suspension reflects the continuing tension in Bangladesh–India relations.

The restriction in Kolkata followed similar measures in New Delhi and Agartala. Hossain emphasized that the decision is purely a security matter.

Strained Dhaka–Delhi Relations

Relations between Bangladesh and India have remained tense since the fall of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government in violent street protests in July–August 2024. The ties worsened after Bangladesh refused to send its national cricket team to India for the T20 World Cup 2026, citing safety issues.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) formally requested the International Cricket Council (ICC) to move Bangladesh’s matches to other countries. The concerns included safety for players, media personnel, fans, and other stakeholders.

Tensions escalated after Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman was removed from the Indian Premier League (IPL) squad, amid diplomatic strain. Following the incident, Bangladesh banned IPL broadcasts and officially informed the ICC that it would not play T20 World Cup matches in India.

Background on Visa Tensions

India had previously limited visas for Bangladeshi nationals after August 5, 2024, citing security concerns. Now, Bangladesh’s temporary closure mirrors similar concerns and underscores how diplomatic ties remain fragile.

The government of Bangladesh says it will continue monitoring the situation and resume visa services once it is safe to do so.