Indian Visa Services Restart In Bangladesh After Brief Halt, Chittagong Centre Remains Shut

Indian visa services have resumed across most parts of Bangladesh following a brief suspension triggered by security concerns, officials confirmed. However, operations at the Indian Visa Application Centre (IVAC) in Chittagong will remain suspended until further notice.

Officials said the decision to keep the Chittagong centre closed was taken in view of the local security situation, which is currently under assessment.

Why Visa Services Were Suspended In Chittagong

Visa operations in Chittagong were halted on December 21 after a mob-related incident late on the night of December 18–19 raised concerns over the safety of diplomatic premises and personnel.

During the unrest, stone-pelting was reported at the residence of the Assistant Indian High Commissioner in the port city, prompting authorities to temporarily suspend visa services as a precautionary measure.

All other Indian visa centres across Bangladesh are functioning normally, with applications being accepted and processed as usual, officials said.

Security Review Underway

The Indian Visa Application Centre in Chittagong stated that services would remain closed until a fresh review of the local security environment is completed. A decision on reopening will be taken based on the outcome of this assessment.

Meanwhile, security has been strengthened at Indian diplomatic missions and visa facilities in other Bangladeshi cities, including Sylhet, to prevent any escalation or spillover of unrest.

Unrest Triggered By Political Violence

The suspension comes amid heightened tensions following the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent youth leader and former student protest figure.

Hadi, who played a key role in the student-led protests last year that led to the fall of the Awami League government led by Sheikh Hasina, was also a candidate in the February 12 general elections.

The 32-year-old was shot in the head by masked assailants during an election campaign in Dhaka’s Bijoynagar area on December 12. He later succumbed to his injuries while undergoing treatment in Singapore on December 18.

Protests And Funeral

Hadi’s death sparked violent protests across several parts of Bangladesh, with incidents of arson and vandalism reported. One of the incidents involved stone-pelting at the Indian diplomat’s residence in Chittagong on December 18.

He was laid to rest on December 20 near the grave of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam, adjacent to the Dhaka University mosque, amid heavy security arrangements.

Tens of thousands attended his funeral prayers, during which anti-India slogans were reportedly raised, officials said.

Current Status

• ✅ Indian visa services operational across Bangladesh
• ❌ Chittagong IVAC remains closed
• 🔍 Security assessment ongoing
• 🛡️ Enhanced security at Indian diplomatic facilities

Authorities from both sides are closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of personnel and the smooth functioning of consular services.

Related Topics:
World News | India–Bangladesh Relations | Visas | Diplomatic Security

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