Indian visa centres in Bangladesh indefinitely shut due to 'unstable situation'

In response to the worsening security situation in Bangladesh, all Indian Visa Application Centers (IVACs) across the country have been shut down indefinitely. The closure follows the return of non-essential staff and families of the High Commission in Dhaka to India, signaling the Indian government's growing concern over the instability.

"All IVACs will remain closed until further notice due to the unstable situation. The next application date will be communicated via SMS. Please pick up your passport on the next working day," read a notice on their website.

This move, implemented on Wednesday, marks the first significant step by the Indian government addressing the deteriorating security situation in Bangladesh. The country has been experiencing widespread disruption of law and order, with attacks on Awami League leaders, their homes, security personnel, and offices. Statues of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman have been vandalized, and mobs have invaded the Prime Minister’s residence and parliament.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar informed the Rajya Sabha that the government is closely monitoring the situation concerning minorities in Bangladesh. He also reported that Indian students studying in Bangladesh have returned home with the assistance of the Indian Embassy.

The Indian government has expressed concerns regarding the safety and security of Indian interests in Bangladesh, including its diplomatic facilities, personnel, and citizens. It has emphasized the responsibility of the new establishment in Dhaka to ensure their protection.

In the wake of New Delhi withdrawing some of its personnel, Nobel laureate and designated head of the interim government of Bangladesh, Prof. Mohammad Yunus, made a fervent appeal for calm and an end to violence.

"Stay calm and refrain from all kinds of violence," Prof. Yunus urged, in an attempt to restore peace and stability in the country.