Bangladesh suspends most visa services in India amid diplomatic strain

Dhaka: Bangladesh has instructed its diplomatic missions in India to temporarily halt visa services, citing security concerns as relations between the two neighbors remain tense.

The suspension affects Bangladeshi missions in New Delhi, Kolkata, and Agartala. However, visa services continue at missions in Mumbai and Chennai, and the restrictions do not apply to business or work visas.

Relations between Bangladesh and India have been strained since mass protests in July and August 2024 led to the ouster of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina’s government. During that period, India also imposed limitations on visas for Bangladeshi citizens.

The move underscores that regional travel and visa policies are increasingly shaped by political considerations, and that India, despite its large market, is not the only country influencing travel flows in South Asia.

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