New services in Agartala After Violent Protest
Bangladesh Assistant High Commission Suspends Services After Mob Attack in Agartala
Mob Attack on Bangladesh Diplomatic Mission Sparks Protests
On December 2, 2024, the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission in Agartala became the focal point of protests over the arrest of Hindu monk Chinmoy Prabhu in Bangladesh. The protest turned violent as a mob breached security barricades, vandalized the mission’s property, and removed the Bangladeshi national flag.
In the aftermath, seven individuals were arrested for their role in the incident. Additionally, three police officers assigned to guard the mission were suspended for their apparent failure to prevent the breach. The violence led the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission to suspend its visa and consular services, citing a serious security situation.
Bangladesh Demands Accountability After Diplomatic Security Breach
The Bangladesh government has condemned the attack and called for a prompt investigation into the matter. A statement issued by Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the incident as a violation of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, which mandates the protection of foreign missions from intrusion and violence.
The Bangladesh government has demanded immediate action from the Indian authorities to ensure that such an attack does not happen again. The breach has raised concerns over the safety of diplomatic staff stationed in India, particularly following a similar protest in Kolkata a few days earlier.
India Assures Increased Security for Foreign Missions Across the Country
India’s Ministry of External Affairs expressed regret over the attack and assured Bangladesh that it would take all necessary steps to enhance the security of foreign diplomatic missions across the country. Measures to improve security at the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi and its consulates in other cities have been implemented promptly.
In addition to these actions, the Indian government has launched an investigation into the conduct of the police officers stationed at the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission. This indicates a commitment to ensuring that such breaches of security do not occur again in the future.
Visa and Consular Services Suspended Amid Growing Tensions
The suspension of visa and consular services at the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission in Agartala has significantly impacted diplomatic operations, creating inconvenience for many who rely on the mission for visa processing and consular assistance.
The Bangladesh government has urged its citizens to remain patient as it works with Indian authorities to resolve the situation and ensure that normal services are resumed as soon as possible. Meanwhile, the Indian government is under pressure to restore calm and prevent any further incidents that could damage bilateral relations between the two countries.
The violent breach at the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission in Agartala has led to heightened tensions between India and Bangladesh. The suspension of consular services has disrupted diplomatic activities and escalated concerns over the safety of diplomatic missions in India. Both nations are focused on addressing the situation and ensuring that diplomatic protocols are respected to maintain healthy international relations.
