Chittagong [Bangladesh]: The Indian Visa Application Centre (IVAC) in Chittagong has suspended all visa-related services with immediate effect following a security incident at the Assistant High Commission of India (AHCI) in the port city.
In an official statement, IVAC Bangladesh said the suspension came into force on Sunday and will continue until further notice. The decision was taken in view of the prevailing security situation around the Indian diplomatic mission. Authorities said visa operations would resume only after a comprehensive review of local conditions.
The development comes amid rising unrest in several parts of Bangladesh. Security concerns intensified earlier this week following disturbances reported near the Indian mission in Chittagong, prompting precautionary measures.
The situation has further deteriorated with a series of violent incidents across the country. In Mymensingh, ten people have been arrested in connection with the killing of 27-year-old Hindu youth Dipu Chandra Das. The victim was allegedly beaten to death by a mob over accusations of blasphemy on December 18, after which his body was set ablaze. The incident triggered widespread outrage and condemnation.
Chief Adviser of Bangladesh’s interim government, Muhammad Yunus, confirmed the arrests, stating that seven suspects were apprehended by the Rapid Action Battalion while three others were taken into custody by local police.
Meanwhile, tension continues to simmer in the capital Dhaka following the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, the convenor of Inqilab Moncho. Hadi, a key figure associated with last year’s July Uprising, was shot at close range on December 12 in the Bijoynagar area and later succumbed to his injuries. After his funeral prayers at Dhaka University, supporters of Inqilab Moncho marched towards Shahbagh, demanding justice.
Fresh protests erupted on Sunday as activists gathered at the Shahbagh intersection, adding to the volatile atmosphere in the capital. Authorities remain on alert as demonstrations continue.
IVAC Bangladesh said any announcement regarding the reopening of visa services in Chittagong would be made after a careful assessment of the security environment.
