India has suspended visa services at its Chittagong center starting December 21, 2025, following a violent protest that targeted the Assistant High Commission. The incident involved stone-throwing at the mission building, raising serious security concerns and prompting authorities to halt all visa applications until further notice.
The unrest was triggered by the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, a 32-year-old uprising figure who was shot on December 12 and succumbed to his injuries on December 18. His funeral drew massive crowds, many of whom chanted anti-India slogans, intensifying tensions in the region. The protests quickly escalated, with some groups linking the violence to accusations of Indian interference in Bangladesh’s internal matters.
India has expressed alarm over the attacks, particularly highlighting concerns about rising violence against minority communities, including Hindus, in Bangladesh. Officials have underscored the need for stronger security measures to protect diplomatic missions and ensure the safety of Indian nationals in the country.
The suspension of visa services underscores the strain in bilateral relations ahead of Bangladesh’s February 2026 elections. With no reopening date announced, the move signals India’s cautious stance amid growing instability. Observers note that the decision could impact travel and cultural exchanges, further reflecting the fraying ties between the two neighbors during a politically sensitive period.
