New Delhi: India has decided to withdraw the families of its diplomatic officials stationed in Bangladesh, citing deteriorating security conditions in the neighbouring nation. The move, announced on Tuesday, comes just weeks ahead of the country's scheduled parliamentary elections.
Official sources confirmed that the advisory was issued as a "precautionary measure" due to the volatile environment. While the High Commission in Dhaka and assistant high commissions in Chattogram, Khulna, Rajshahi, and Sylhet will remain fully operational, the Ministry of External Affairs has effectively designated Bangladesh as a "non-family" posting for Indian diplomats, a status previously reserved for high-risk locations like Pakistan.
The decision reflects growing apprehension in New Delhi regarding rising extremist activities and safety risks. Bilateral relations have been under significant strain since August 2024, following the collapse of the Sheikh Hasina government and the subsequent installation of an interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus.
India has repeatedly flagged concerns regarding targeted attacks on minority communities, particularly Hindus, under the current administration. The shift to a non-family posting underscores the severity of the security assessment, even as diplomatic channels remain open.