The Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi has announced the temporary suspension of all visa issuance and consular services until further notice, citing concerns over security and the need to avoid any untoward situation. The decision, which came into effect immediately, was communicated through an official notice issued by the High Commission on Monday, 22 December.
According to the notice, the suspension applies to all categories of consular services, including visa processing, and will remain in place until a fresh announcement is made. The High Commission expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to applicants and urged members of the public to remain patient while the situation is being assessed.
This precautionary move follows a series of unsettling incidents near Bangladeshi diplomatic and consular facilities in India over the weekend. 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 called for Bangladeshi nationals to leave India, creating an atmosphere of tension and unease in the area.
The situation escalated further on Sunday when a Bangladeshi visa application centre in Siliguri, West Bengal, was attacked. The assailants reportedly vandalised parts of the facility, raising serious concerns about the safety of Bangladeshi diplomatic operations and the individuals who rely on these centres for essential services. Although no injuries were immediately reported, the incident has prompted heightened vigilance around Bangladeshi missions across India.
Diplomatic observers note that the suspension of visa and consular services, while temporary, could have a significant impact on thousands of people who regularly depend on these facilities. Bangladeshi citizens seeking consular assistance, as well as Indian nationals applying for visas for purposes such as medical treatment, education, tourism, and business, are likely to face delays and inconvenience.
Sources within the High Commission indicated that the decision was taken primarily to ensure the safety of staff, visitors, and applicants. The mission is reportedly in close contact with Indian authorities to assess the evolving situation and to ensure adequate security arrangements are in place. Once conditions are deemed safe and stable, services are expected to resume in phases.
The development underscores the broader challenges faced by diplomatic missions in maintaining uninterrupted public services amid political tensions and security threats. Analysts emphasise the importance of safeguarding diplomatic premises in accordance with international conventions, while also ensuring that public-facing services can be restored swiftly.
The Bangladesh High Commission has advised applicants to monitor official channels for updates regarding the resumption of services.
Key Information at a Glance :
| Category | Details |
| Location | Bangladesh High Commission, New Delhi |
| Decision | Temporary suspension of all visa and consular services |
| Effective Date | 22 December |
| Reason | Security concerns and avoidance of untoward incidents |
| Recent Incidents | Protests in Delhi; vandalism at Siliguri visa centre |
| Protesters | Approximately 20–25 individuals |
| Duration | Until further notice |
| Public Advisory | Follow official announcements for updates |