India has indefinitely suspended visa services at the Indian Visa Application Centre (IVAC) in Chittagong, Bangladesh’s second-largest city, following a series of security-related incidents linked to unrest in the country. The suspension came into effect on December 21 and will remain in force until further notice, officials confirmed.
The decision follows reports of stone-pelting and vandalism at premises associated with the Indian Assistant High Commission in Chittagong, amid a rapidly deteriorating law-and-order situation. Indian authorities have described the move as a precautionary step aimed at safeguarding diplomatic staff and visa applicants.
Visa Services Closed Until Security Review
In an official statement, IVAC announced that all Indian visa-related operations in Chittagong have been halted and will resume only after a comprehensive review of the security environment. Officials emphasised that the suspension is temporary but open-ended, depending entirely on ground conditions
Political Violence Sparks Wider Unrest
The suspension comes against the backdrop of heightened political turmoil in Bangladesh. The killing of youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi, who was shot during an election campaign in Dhaka, triggered large-scale protests, arson, and vandalism across several regions. His death has intensified tensions ahead of the country’s general elections.
Hadi was associated with last year’s student-led protests against the Sheikh Hasina-led government. Reports of anti-India slogans during funeral processions and protests have added a sensitive diplomatic dimension to the unrest.
Security Tightened at Indian Missions
Following the Chittagong incident, additional security has been deployed at Indian diplomatic premises and visa centres in Sylhet and Dhaka. Local police said surveillance has been stepped up to ensure that “no third party exploits the situation.”
Impact on India–Bangladesh Travel and Ties
India–Bangladesh visa services are vital for medical travel, education, tourism, and trade, and the closure in a major port city like Chittagong is expected to impact thousands of applicants. However, diplomatic sources indicated that alternative arrangements may be explored once conditions stabilise.
What Happens Next
Indian and Bangladeshi authorities are said to be in constant touch, monitoring developments closely. India has reiterated that the security of its diplomatic missions is non-negotiable, while Bangladesh has assured steps to restore order and protect foreign establishments.
For now, applicants in Chittagong will need to wait, as the resumption of visa services depends entirely on the evolving security assessment.
