Visa Services Suspended at Bangladesh Mission in Delhi

The Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi has temporarily suspended all visa issuance and consular services until further notice, citing concerns over an “unwanted and potentially volatile situation.” The decision was formally announced on Monday, 22 December, through an official notice issued by the High Commission.

According to the statement, the suspension has been implemented as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety and security of visa applicants, visitors, and diplomatic staff. The notice clarified that all categories of consular services—including visa processing, document attestation, and other citizen services—will remain halted until a fresh announcement is made.

A printed notice conveying the decision was displayed prominently at the entrance of the Bangladesh High Commission in Delhi. In the message, the mission expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to applicants and urged them to remain patient while the situation is closely monitored. Officials indicated that services would resume once conditions are deemed safe and stable.

The move follows a series of unsettling incidents near Bangladeshi diplomatic facilities in India over the past few days. On Saturday (20 December) and Sunday (21 December), a group of approximately 20 to 25 supporters of an extremist organisation reportedly staged demonstrations in front of the Bangladesh High Commission in Delhi. Witnesses stated that the protesters shouted provocative slogans and demanded that Bangladeshi nationals leave India, creating tension in the surrounding area.

Adding to the concern, a separate incident occurred on Sunday in Siliguri, where a Bangladeshi visa application centre was reportedly attacked. During the incident, assailants vandalised parts of the facility, damaging furniture and disrupting operations. While no casualties were reported, the incident heightened anxiety among visa applicants and staff members alike.

Diplomatic observers note that the safety of foreign missions is a responsibility of the host country under international conventions. While no official statement has been made regarding long-term diplomatic repercussions, analysts suggest that the suspension reflects a cautious and responsible approach aimed at preventing escalation.

At present, the Bangladesh High Commission continues to assess the situation in coordination with local authorities. Applicants have been advised to follow official announcements for updates regarding the resumption of services. Until then, all routine operations remain on hold.

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