Bangladesh: Bangladesh and India are witnessing a renewed phase of diplomatic strain following Dhaka’s decision to summon India’s High Commissioner for the second time within ten days. The move reflects growing concerns in Bangladesh over the safety and uninterrupted functioning of its diplomatic missions in India amid ongoing protests and political sensitivities. The situation has added a new layer of complexity to an already delicate bilateral relationship between the two neighboring countries.

Second Summons Signals Growing Unease

On Tuesday morning, Bangladesh’s Foreign Secretary called in India’s High Commissioner to Dhaka at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to formally communicate concerns regarding the security of Bangladeshi diplomatic establishments in India. The meeting, though brief, carried strong symbolic weight. Bangladesh emphasized the importance of ensuring adequate protection for its diplomats, administrative staff, and consular services operating across Indian cities.

This was not the first time the issue had been raised in recent weeks. Earlier in the month, the Bangladeshi foreign ministry had made a similar démarche, indicating that Dhaka considers the matter serious enough to warrant repeated high-level diplomatic engagement.

Protests Outside Missions Spark Alarm

The immediate backdrop to the summons has been a series of demonstrations held outside Bangladeshi diplomatic missions in India. Protesters gathered near the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi as well as the Deputy High Commission in Kolkata. These demonstrations were reportedly organized by political activists and civil society groups who accused Bangladesh of failing to protect minority communities and demanded accountability from authorities in Dhaka.

While the protests were largely peaceful, Bangladesh viewed the gatherings as disruptive and potentially threatening to normal diplomatic operations. Concerns were raised about crowd management, perimeter security, and the overall safety environment for foreign missions during politically charged demonstrations.

Suspension of Consular and Visa Services

Citing security-related challenges and what officials described as unavoidable circumstances, the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi temporarily suspended all consular and visa services. Similar suspensions were announced at the Assistant High Commission in Agartala, while services in Siliguri were also affected by operational disruptions.

These measures have had immediate implications for travelers, students, and business communities dependent on cross-border movement. The suspension underscores how diplomatic tensions can quickly translate into practical inconveniences for ordinary citizens, even when broader relations remain officially intact.

India Pushes Back on Security Claims

India has firmly rejected assertions that Bangladeshi missions faced serious security threats. Officials from India’s Ministry of External Affairs responded to media reports by describing claims of a security breach as exaggerated and misleading. According to Indian authorities, the protests involved a limited number of participants, remained peaceful, and were swiftly managed by local police forces.

Indian officials stressed that there was no attempt to breach diplomatic premises and that security protocols functioned as intended. From New Delhi’s perspective, the situation did not justify alarm or disruption of diplomatic services, highlighting a clear divergence in how both sides assess the same events.

Broader Context of Strained Relations

The current episode is unfolding against a backdrop of wider political tension between the two countries. Relations have been under strain following unrest in Bangladesh linked to the killing of a prominent student leader and the protests that followed across the country. Political developments, combined with sensitive issues surrounding leadership transitions and regional alignments, have contributed to mutual suspicion.

Additionally, Bangladesh’s internal situation has drawn international attention, and reactions from groups in India have further complicated bilateral perceptions. These factors together have made diplomatic engagement more cautious and, at times, confrontational.

Efforts to Prevent Further Escalation

Despite sharp exchanges and visible disagreements, officials on both sides continue to remain in contact. Diplomatic channels remain open, reflecting a shared interest in preventing the situation from escalating into a prolonged standoff. Both countries have strong economic, cultural, and strategic ties, making stability in relations a priority even during moments of tension.

However, with visa services suspended and protests continuing sporadically, the current dispute represents a notable flashpoint. How both governments manage public sentiment, security concerns, and diplomatic communication in the coming days will play a key role in shaping the next phase of India-Bangladesh relations.