Bangladesh has suspended the issuance of tourist and several other categories of visas for Indian nationals across all its diplomatic missions in India, citing heightened bilateral tensions. The decision applies to all six Bangladeshi missions, including the High Commission in New Delhi and deputy and assistant high commissions in major cities.
According to a senior official at a Bangladesh mission, visa services for Indian citizens have been restricted since December 20, with visas now being issued only for business and employment purposes. The move was taken following directives from higher authorities.
The suspension comes amid a deterioration in India–Bangladesh relations. Indian missions in Bangladesh had earlier curtailed visa services for Bangladeshi nationals after the fall of the Awami League government in August 2024. Tensions intensified further following the killing of Dipu Chandra Das, a member of Bangladesh’s minority community, in Mymensingh, triggering protests by Hindu right-wing groups outside the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi.
Although there were brief signs of diplomatic easing after visits by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to Dhaka and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to the Bangladesh High Commission, fresh friction emerged after the BCCI directed IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders to release Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman.
Subsequently, Bangladesh indicated to the International Cricket Council that it may seek rescheduling of T20 World Cup matches slated to be held in Kolkata and Mumbai. A former Bangladeshi diplomat noted that the prevailing political climate, particularly ahead of West Bengal elections, suggests the tensions may persist in the near term.
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