Thousands of Jihadis attempt to attack Indian embassy in Dhaka !

India temporarily shuts visa application centers in Dhaka!

Dhaka (Bangladesh) – On the evening of 17thDecember, thousands of jihadist Muslims attempted to attack the Indian Embassy in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. Due to police security, the attempt did not succeed. Following this incident, India has temporarily closed the Indian Visa Application Centre. It has also been clarified that applicants who had fixed appointments for submitting their applications will be given new dates in the future.

This centre, located at Jamuna Future Park in Dhaka, is considered the main and consolidated centre for all Indian visa services (an official document or stamp permitting entry into, exit from, or transit through a country) in the capital.

Earlier, the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi had summoned Bangladesh’s High Commissioner, Riyaz Hamidullah. The Ministry expressed serious concern over attempts by certain extremist elements to disturb the atmosphere around the Indian Embassy in Dhaka.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that,

The Ministry of External Affairs stated that India expects the interim government of Bangladesh to ensure the security of the Indian Embassy and offices there, in accordance with its diplomatic obligations. Serious concern regarding the deteriorating security situation in Bangladesh was conveyed to the High Commissioner. This step has been taken at a time of heightened sensitivity regarding regional security and the safety of diplomatic establishments. It was also made clear that the safety of Indian citizens and missions is India’s highest priority.

Protests demanding extradition of Hasina

On 17thDecember, a large number of protesters marched towards the Indian Embassy in Dhaka; however, police stopped them midway. The protesters raised anti-India slogans and demanded the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and other leaders.

One protester said that they would not attack the Indian Embassy; however, if anyone tried to pressure Bangladesh, they would not be spared. The protesters also alleged that India-supported political parties, media, and government officials were conspiring against Bangladesh.

Security tightened around the Indian High Commission

Dhaka Police Deputy Commissioner Noor-e-Alam Siddique said that additional police forces have been called in from various parts of the city to strengthen security around the Indian Embassy. The protest was led by A.B. Jubair, Social Welfare Secretary of the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union. After being stopped by the police, the protesters sat on the road.

Why has the situation flared up again?

The situation became more tense last week after unidentified attackers opened fire on Sharif Osman Hadi, a key leader of last year’s movement. He has been seriously injured. Additionally, a candidate from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party has decided not to contest the elections due to security reasons. Mahfuz Alam, another prominent leader of the previous movement, has warned that if the leaders of the movement are not kept safe, then their opponents will not remain safe either.

Editorial Perspective

An attempt to attack the Indian Embassy amounts to an attempt to attack India and India should respond in appropriate and proportionate measures. It is now clear that if India remains inactive even now, this situation will become increasingly difficult day by day.