India closes Rajshahi and Khulna visa centres amid protests, Dhaka IVAC reopens
Visa services at other IVACs in Bangladesh are also being reviewed in light of the prevailing security situations.
The Indian Visa Application Centres (IVACs) in Rajshahi and Khulna were shut today (18 December) as authorities moved to prevent escalation amid anti-India protests, while the Dhaka centre at Jamuna Future Park resumed operations the day after temporarily closing over security concerns.
The Rajshahi and Khulna closures followed heightened diplomatic tensions and protests over the gun attack on Osman Hadi, which drew widespread attention on social media.
In Rajshahi, at around 1:30pm yesterday, members of the Bharityo Adhipotto Birodhi July 36 Mancha attempted to march toward the Assistant High Commission of India. Protesters, carrying national flags and chanting slogans critical of India, were stopped by police barricades near the Padma Residential Area. Clashes occurred when some demonstrators tried to dismantle the barricades.
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Shahriar Kabir, a member of the platform, alleged Indian involvement in border violence and political interference, including sheltering political figures and individuals accused of violence. Law enforcement authorities did not comment on the incident.
In Khulna, around 5:30pm, student leaders and activists staged a protest outside the Indian Assistant High Commission on Shamsur Rahman Road. Demonstrators initially gathered at Royal Intersection and marched toward the office.
Police set up barricades, which were partially breached by protesters who then gathered near the diplomatic premises, chanting slogans and displaying banners against alleged Indian interference in Bangladesh's internal affairs.
Students break police barricade, protest outside Indian Assistant High Commission in Khulna
Khulna Metropolitan Police Deputy Commissioner Tajul Islam confirmed no serious confrontations or injuries occurred, and the situation was brought under control after protesters dispersed. Traffic was briefly affected.
The IVAC noted that scheduled appointments would be rescheduled for new slots. Meanwhile, the Dhaka IVAC reopened in the morning, with officials assuring that operations were back to normal and appointments would be honoured. The centre said operations would continue to be assessed in line with security developments.
Authorities across the affected cities have strengthened security around Indian diplomatic missions to maintain order and ensure the protection of personnel amid ongoing political sensitivities.
