Sun Dec 21 09:51:06 UTC 2025: Summary:

Following the death of prominent Bangladeshi youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi, a candidate for the upcoming elections and a leader of protests that ousted the previous government, India has suspended visa operations at its Visa Application Centre in Chittagong, Bangladesh. Hadi’s death, resulting from a shooting, sparked unrest and anti-India sentiment, including an attack on the Indian Assistant High Commissioner’s residence. Security has been heightened at Indian diplomatic facilities in Bangladesh, and Hadi’s funeral was attended by tens of thousands chanting anti-India slogans.

News Article:

India Suspends Visa Operations in Chittagong Amid Rising Tensions in Bangladesh

Dhaka, Bangladesh – December 21, 2025 – The Indian government has announced the immediate suspension of visa operations at the Indian Visa Application Centre (IVAC) in Chittagong, Bangladesh, effective today. This decision follows escalating tensions in the wake of the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent Bangladeshi youth leader and election candidate.

Hadi, a key figure in last year’s protests that led to the removal of the Awami League government, died on December 18th after being shot at an election campaign rally in Dhaka. His death has sparked widespread unrest across Bangladesh, including acts of vandalism and an attack on the Assistant Indian High Commissioner’s residence in Chittagong on Thursday.

“Due to a recent security incident at the Assistant High Commission of India in Chittagong, all Indian visa-related services in the port city will remain closed from December 21 until further notice,” the IVAC stated in a press release. A review of the security situation will determine when the center will reopen.

On Saturday, security was also beefed up at the Indian Assistant High Commission office and the visa application centre in Sylhet. Authorities are taking precautions to prevent any further exploitation of the situation.

Hadi’s funeral on Saturday drew tens of thousands of mourners who chanted anti-India slogans. The incident highlights the complex and sometimes fraught relationship between India and Bangladesh, particularly in the context of internal political developments within Bangladesh. The suspension of visa services underscores India’s concern for the safety of its diplomatic personnel and facilities amid the ongoing unrest.

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