Turmoil in Bangladesh: Visa Centers Close Amid Unrest and Leadership Change

Indian visa centers in Bangladesh have shut down indefinitely due to the country’s escalating instability. Violent anti-quota protests have led to 469 deaths, including 29 from the ruling Awami League. Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus will head a new interim government after former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled to India. Yunus, currently in Paris, praised student protesters and urged nonviolence.

Former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, released from prison, called for a democratic Bangladesh respecting all religions amidst reports of attacks on Hindu minorities and Awami League members. The Indian High Commission in Dhaka remains operational, but non-essential staff and families have been recalled. Indian airlines resumed services to repatriate over 400 people, while the Border Security Force prevented a large group of Bangladeshis from entering India due to local unrest.

Fears of robbery and looting have gripped Dhaka, with residents forming neighborhood watch groups. US Congressman Rich McCormick expressed concern over sectarian violence, pledging to promote a peaceful transition. Saima Wazed, Hasina’s daughter, voiced her heartbreak over the crisis. Odisha has stepped up vigilance along its coastline to prevent possible influxes from Bangladesh.