A large number of protesters, under the banner of “July Oikyo Mancho” (July Unity Platform), on Wednesday attempted to march towards the Indian High Commission in Dhaka, demanding the extradition of deposed Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from India. The protesters were stopped by police before reaching the diplomatic premises, as security was tightened across the area.
The demonstration disrupted normal operations in the vicinity, leading to the early closure of the Indian Visa Application Centre at 2:00 PM. Authorities confirmed that all visa appointments scheduled for the remainder of the day were postponed and rescheduled for the following day.
Meanwhile, India on Wednesday summoned Bangladesh High Commissioner to New Delhi, M Riaz Hamidullah, to convey its concerns over the activities of what it described as “extremist elements” ahead of the planned protest march to the Indian mission in Dhaka. Indian officials expressed apprehension over security and the safety of diplomatic establishments.
According to reports, the protest call was issued by the July Oikyo Mancho with the specific demand that Sheikh Hasina be repatriated to Bangladesh from India. Despite the heightened tensions, officials stated that the protest in Dhaka remained largely under control, with no major untoward incidents reported.
Authorities on both sides are closely monitoring developments, even as diplomatic channels remain engaged to address the situation.
