Bangladesh has further tightened visa issuance for Indian nationals, extending the curbs to its deputy high commissions in Kolkata, Mumbai, and Chennai. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the measures Wednesday night, which came into effect Thursday, suspending all visa categories except business and employment visas.
Under the latest restrictions, consular and visa services at the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission in Kolkata have been completely halted, while tourist and other visa services at missions in Mumbai and Chennai are also suspended. Officials cited security considerations amid ongoing tensions between the two countries as the reason for the move.
This follows similar actions in December, when Bangladesh temporarily suspended visa issuance and consular services at the High Commission in New Delhi, the Assistant High Commission in Agartala, Tripura, the visa center in Siliguri, and the mission in Guwahati, Assam. With these measures, Bangladeshi visas for Indian nationals are now largely restricted to business and employment purposes.
The restrictions have prompted protests in India. On Wednesday, about 150 supporters of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) gathered outside the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission in Mumbai, chanting anti-Bangladesh slogans. Reports indicate that tensions escalated at the scene, leading to clashes with police.
The latest developments come amid a reciprocal history of visa curbs. India had previously imposed restrictions on Bangladeshi nationals following security concerns after August 5, 2024. The new round of measures highlights the growing strain in bilateral relations, reflecting both security apprehensions and ongoing diplomatic sensitivities between the neighboring countries.
