Post by : Rameen Ariff

India has closed its Visa Application Centre in Dhaka on December 17, 2025, following escalating threats from radical elements in Bangladesh. The decision comes amid growing anti-India rhetoric and security concerns, as the interim Bangladeshi government led by Muhammad Yunus pushes for closer ties with Pakistan. The move highlights the fragile security and diplomatic situation in South Asia, drawing global attention to regional stability and cross-border relations.

The Indian Visa Application Centre at Jamuna Future Park was officially shut at 2 PM on Wednesday, with applicants advised that their appointments would be rescheduled. India has a total of 16 visa centres across Bangladesh, collectively processing over two million applications each year. The State Bank of India manages the receipt of all applications on the country’s behalf.

The closure followed India summoning Bangladesh’s High Commissioner, Muhammad Riaz Hamidullah, in New Delhi to lodge a formal diplomatic protest. Officials cited inflammatory speeches and targeted threats towards India and its territorial sovereignty. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs emphasized that extremist elements had attempted to create a false narrative to destabilize diplomatic ties.

Over recent days, several Bangladeshi leaders made statements targeting India’s northeast, claiming that Dhaka would support forces aiming to sever India’s “Seven Sisters” region. These claims came in the wake of an attack on student leader Sharif Osman Hadi, which anti-India factions used to fuel their rhetoric. India has firmly rejected all allegations, stating that it has never permitted its territory to be used for actions against Bangladesh’s interests.

The situation has further complicated already tense diplomatic relations. While India has historically maintained strong people-to-people and developmental ties with Bangladesh, recent events highlight the challenges of balancing security and diplomacy. The Indian government has stressed that missions and diplomatic posts must be safeguarded in accordance with international norms.

Public and political reactions in both countries have been closely monitored. Analysts warn that continued radical statements and protests could inflame tensions further, potentially affecting trade, travel, and regional cooperation. The closure of the visa centre, while temporary, signals India’s serious concern for the safety of its nationals and staff in Bangladesh.

Globally, this development underscores the impact of domestic political changes on bilateral relations in South Asia. Diplomatic responses, regional security measures, and timely dialogue are now crucial to prevent escalation. Observers note that ensuring safe diplomatic operations and maintaining open communication channels is essential to regional stability.

The latest updates indicate that India will continue to monitor the situation in Dhaka closely and is expected to engage with Bangladesh through diplomatic channels in the coming days. The reopening of the visa centre will likely depend on assurances from the interim government regarding the security of Indian personnel and facilities. The incident highlights the delicate balance between diplomacy, security, and public perception in an increasingly volatile regional landscape.

#world news #Global News