GG News Bureau
New Delhi/ Dhaka, 9th Jan: Bangladesh’s interim government on Thursday announced the suspension of visa services at its key diplomatic missions in India, citing security concerns, in a move that underlines continuing strains in bilateral relations. Foreign Affairs Adviser M Touhid Hossain told reporters that visa sections at Bangladesh’s missions in New Delhi, Kolkata and Agartala have been asked to remain closed for the time being. “It’s a security issue,” he said, adding that the decision would remain in effect until further notice. The move follows an overnight restriction on visa services by the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission in Kolkata, mirroring similar steps already taken in New Delhi and Agartala. However, Bangladesh’s missions in Mumbai and Chennai continue to provide visa services. India had earlier imposed restrictions on visas for Bangladeshi nationals after August 5, 2024, also citing security concerns. Ties between New Delhi and Dhaka have remained tense since the Awami League government led by former prime minister Sheikh Hasina was ousted following violent student-led protests in July–August 2024. Hossain also said Dhaka would seek diplomatic engagement with Washington to obtain relief from the recently imposed US visa bond requirement, describing the measure as “painful” though not unprecedented, as several other countries face similar immigration-related restrictions. Separately, responding to queries on Bangladesh’s potential interest in acquiring JF-17 Thunder fighter jets from Pakistan, Hossain said discussions were underway but declined to share further details, indicating that clarity would emerge once talks conclude
