New Delhi: All Indian visa application centres in Bangladesh have been closed indefinitely due to the ongoing unrest in the country. This situation has led to the resignation and fleeing of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The online portal for Indian visa applications now displays a message stating, "All IVACs will remain closed till further notice, due to unstable situation. Next application date will be informed through SMS & It is requested to pick up the passport on the next working day."
This closure follows New Delhi's decision to evacuate non-essential staff and their families from its High Commission and consulates in Bangladesh. Despite the evacuation, Indian diplomats remain in the country, and the missions are still operational, according to government sources.
India maintains a high commission in Dhaka and consulates in Chittagong, Rajshahi, Khulna, and Sylhet.
Trade between India and Bangladesh through the Petrapole land port in West Bengal resumed on Thursday morning under tight security measures. Trade had come to a halt on August 5 following the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government. It partially resumed on Wednesday through several land ports in West Bengal, excluding Petrapole.
Petrapole is the busiest land port for trade between the two countries.
"Trade began from Petrapole this morning after a meeting with stakeholders from both countries to resolve the stalemate," an official said, requesting anonymity.
Sajedur Rahman, General Secretary of the Benapole C&F Staff Association, confirmed that trade resumed as expected on Thursday morning.
In a significant development, Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel laureate recognized for his work in microfinance, has been appointed to lead an interim government in Bangladesh. This appointment follows Sheikh Hasina's resignation amid widespread protests. The announcement was made by the presidency on Wednesday.
The decision came after a meeting involving President Mohammed Shahabuddin, military leaders, and student representatives. Yunus, currently in Europe, has expressed his willingness to lead the interim government, stating, "If action is needed in Bangladesh, for my country and for the courage of my people, then I will take it."
Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus to Lead Bangladesh's Interim Govt
India Launches Online Portal to Fast Track PLI Visas for Chinese Technicians
India Introduces Visa-on-Arrival for Tourists from Japan, South Korea, and UAE at Six Airports