Bangladesh on Tuesday summoned the Indian envoy to raise concerns over the security of its diplomatic missions in India, following recent protests outside Bangladeshi establishments in New Delhi and Siliguri, officials said.
The development comes amid heightened tensions between the two neighbours, triggered by political unrest in Bangladesh and protests linked to concerns over minority safety.
Protests Outside Bangladeshi Missions
According to the Bangladesh foreign ministry, demonstrations were held near the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi and the Bangladesh Visa Centre in Siliguri over the past few days. Dhaka expressed concern over what it described as acts of intimidation near diplomatic premises.
In a statement, the ministry said such incidents endanger diplomatic personnel and undermine the principles of mutual respect, peace, and tolerance that govern international relations.
Security Tightened in New Delhi
Security was stepped up outside the Bangladesh High Commission in the national capital as protests by various groups were reported. Authorities intervened to restore order and prevent escalation, officials said.
India, meanwhile, maintained that the demonstrations were brief and controlled, and did not pose any serious security threat to diplomatic staff or premises.
Diplomatic Strain Between India and Bangladesh
Relations between India and Bangladesh have come under strain in recent weeks due to political developments in Dhaka, including the situation surrounding former Bangladeshi prime minister Sheikh Hasina, who is currently in India.
Dhaka has been seeking her extradition following legal proceedings in Bangladesh, while New Delhi has reiterated its commitment to peace, democracy, inclusion, and regional stability.
India’s Earlier Protest to Dhaka
Last week, India had also summoned Bangladesh’s high commissioner, raising concerns over the deteriorating security environment in Bangladesh and potential threats to Indian diplomatic personnel in Dhaka.
Indian officials cited inflammatory political statements and attacks on institutions as contributing factors behind the diplomatic engagement.
Visa Services Suspended
Amid the security concerns, Bangladesh has reportedly suspended visa operations at its missions in New Delhi, Siliguri, and Tripura. Officials said the decision was taken as a precautionary measure following protests near diplomatic facilities.
India has dismissed what it described as misleading narratives in sections of Bangladeshi media, reiterating that it continues to ensure adequate security for all foreign missions in accordance with international obligations.
