The Indian government has temporarily closed the Indian Visa Application Centre (IVAC) in Dhaka. The shutdown began effectively from 2 PM on December 17.
This decision is not just about administrative trouble. It is a direct response to dangerous threats made by radical Islamists in Bangladesh. These extremist groups have been protesting and using hate speech against India. The situation crossed a red line when radical leaders threatened to “cut off” India’s Northeast region, known as the Seven Sisters.
The Trigger: Threats to “Cut Off” Seven Sisters Dhaka
The immediate reason for this closure was a specific and serious threat. A radical leader from the National Citizen Party (NCP) publicly warned that they would “isolate” the Seven Sisters states from the rest of India. This refers to the strategic “Chicken’s Neck” corridor.
At the same time, a radical group called “July Oikyo” organized a march towards the Indian High Commission. They threatened to surround the building and attack Indian diplomats. These groups have been burning effigies of the Indian Prime Minister and shouting anti-India slogans. Faced with this open aggression, India decided to prioritize the safety of its staff and shut down visa operations.
The Hypocrisy of the Radicals
There is a deep irony in these protests. The same radical Islamists who are burning Indian flags and threatening war are also the ones desperate for Indian visas.
In the past few months, these groups have led campaigns to “Boycott India.” They have attacked Indian goods and spread hate against Indian culture. Yet, they gather in thousands outside the visa center, demanding entry into India for medical treatment or trade.
When the visa center closed, the hypocrisy was exposed. The radicals want India’s help and resources, but they also want to threaten India’s sovereignty. By closing the center, India has sent a clear message: you cannot abuse a neighbor and expect hospitality in return.
India Action
India’s response was swift and strong. Before closing the center, the Ministry of External Affairs summoned the Bangladeshi High Commissioner. India conveyed its serious anger regarding the lack of security for its diplomats.
The message from New Delhi is simple. India has provided billions of dollars in aid and support to Bangladesh over the years. However, the current rise of radical Islamist power has turned gratitude into hostility. India has made it clear that it will not tolerate threats to its territorial integrity.
A Strong Warning
The closure of the visa center is a “masterstroke” against the radical elements. It forces the Bangladeshi government to take action against the extremists. If Dhaka cannot control the jihadi groups threatening its neighbor, the borders will remain closed. India has chosen security over diplomacy, proving that it will not bow down to terror threats.
