India has suspended all visa services at its Indian Visa Application Centre (IVAC) in Chittagong (Chattogram), Bangladesh, indefinitely. The decision came after recent unrest and attacks near Indian diplomatic facilities in the city.
The IVAC statement said the centre will remain closed “until further notice”. Applicants are advised that visa processes in Chittagong are on hold, and no date has been announced for resumption.
The suspension follows a period of political unrest in Bangladesh after the death of youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi. Hadi, involved in student-led protests and elections campaigning, was shot during a rally in Dhaka on December 12. His death sparked demonstrations and clashes across several cities, including Chittagong, some of which targeted Indian diplomatic offices.
Reports indicate that vandalism and stone-pelting occurred near the Indian Assistant High Commission’s residence in Chittagong. Security at Indian consulates in other cities has been increased as a precaution.
India has multiple visa centres across Bangladesh, including in Dhaka, Khulna, Rajshahi, and Sylhet. While Dhaka’s office has continued operations with heightened security, Chittagong’s centre has been closed indefinitely. Applicants from the region are being advised to use other centres or wait for updates.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has stressed the safety of its missions and confirmed that visa services will resume only when the situation is secure. This measure aligns with international diplomatic protocols to protect staff and applicants.
Authorities in Bangladesh have been coordinating with Indian officials to monitor security around diplomatic facilities. The situation remains under close watch, with any future updates expected to be shared publicly by the IVAC and the Ministry of External Affairs.
Applicants in Chittagong are advised to postpone travel plans requiring Indian visas until official announcements are made. The Indian government has urged calm and cooperation from all parties while security measures are in place.
