India Closes Visa Application Centres in Bangladesh Citing Safety Issues

India has closed two further visa application centres in Bangladesh amid escalating safety concerns. This decision follows reports of protests and anti-India rhetoric across various regions in the country.

Incident Overview

The visa centres in Rajshahi and Khulna have ceased operations, with the Dhaka centre previously shut down. An official communication indicated that these closures result from the current security climate.

Timeline of Events

The closures occurred on December 18, 2025, just a day after demonstrators marched near the Indian High Commission located in Dhaka.

Details of the Protests

Protesters identified with the group "July Oikya" organized a rally close to the Indian High Commission. During this event, speakers made forceful statements against India. Subsequently, India evaluated the circumstances and opted to shutter the visa centres for safety reasons.

Individuals who had scheduled appointments were informed that they would receive new arrangements in due course.

Responses from Authorities

India has expressed alarm over the increasing open hostility directed towards it, particularly regarding the northeastern states, known as the "seven sisters."

Bangladesh's Foreign Affairs Advisor, Touhid Hossain, dismissed these worries, stating that the student leader's comments do not represent the government. He also insisted that law and order remains intact and security is assured.

Political Context

The incendiary remarks originated from a leader in the National Citizens Party, a political entity born from student protests that ousted former prime minister Sheikh Hasina last year.

The party currently backs the interim administration of Muhammad Yunus, although some radical factions associated with it have issued threats towards Indian representatives in Bangladesh.

Concerns Over Elections

India has advised Bangladesh to facilitate a peaceful and fair election process. However, the interim government insists it will not heed external counsel regarding electoral matters.

Political analysts in Bangladesh caution that extremist groups may seek to disrupt the electoral process by provoking disturbances and implicating India.

Despite the rising tensions, India has maintained a measured response. For precautionary reasons, it has closed visa centres in Bangladesh. The situation continues to be monitored amid ongoing political strains.