Diplomatic tensions soar over mission security and visa suspensions.

Diplomatic relations between India and Bangladesh faced a significant challenge on Tuesday as Dhaka officially summoned the Indian High Commissioner. The Bangladesh Foreign Ministry expressed grave concerns regarding the safety of its diplomatic missions and personnel within India. This formal protest follows recent demonstrations and incidents reported in New Delhi and Siliguri, which have prompted Bangladesh to take the drastic step of halting visa services in those locations.

According to an official statement from Dhaka, Bangladesh condemns what it describes as premeditated acts of intimidation against its diplomatic establishments. The ministry emphasized that such incidents not only endanger staff but also undermine the values of mutual respect and international peace. Consequently, the Bangladeshi government has requested a thorough investigation into these events and urged India to bolster security measures for all its missions and related facilities.

The tension stems from two specific incidents. On December 22, 2025, reports emerged of vandalism at a private visa processing center in Siliguri. Additionally, a protest took place outside the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi on December 20. A foreign ministry official confirmed that visa operations in these cities are currently suspended due to these security anxieties. In Siliguri, allegations were made regarding threats issued by local groups, leading to the closure of the VFS office.

India has reacted by dismissing claims of inadequate security. Government officials in New Delhi described the protest near the High Commission as brief and non-threatening. India further criticized "misleading propaganda" appearing in certain sections of the media, asserting that diplomatic obligations are being fully met.

The underlying cause of this friction is the tragic death of 27-year-old Dipu Chandra Das in Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Das, a Hindu youth, was reportedly killed by a mob on December 18 following allegations of blasphemy. This brutal incident has sparked international outrage and triggered the protests in India concerning the safety of minorities in Bangladesh. While Dhaka demands protection for its diplomats, New Delhi remains focused on the human rights concerns arising from the violence in Mymensingh.