Bangladesh and India are moving to restore full visa services, signaling a normalization of bilateral ties after nearly 18 months of diplomatic tension.
According to a report by the Indian Express, Bangladesh has already begun issuing all types of visas. India is expected to follow suit, resuming its visa operations in a phased manner over the next few weeks.
Reliable administrative sources in New Delhi suggest that Indian tourist visas for Bangladeshis may finally resume as early as May 6. If implemented, this move will end a long-standing deadlock that has frustrated travelers and businessmen in both nations.
The restoration of ties is being monitored directly by the Indian Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). A high-level committee, headed by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, has reportedly advocated for a swift return to normalcy. However, the final green light depends on a security assessment from India's National Security Advisor, Ajit Doval.
The prospect of returning Bangladeshi tourists has sparked hope in Kolkata’s commercial hubs. Business owners in the Park Street and Free School Street areas, who rely heavily on cross-border visitors, expect a significant economic turnaround once the gates reopen.
This development follows a recent visit to India by Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman on April 7, where he held crucial meetings with Indian officials to fast-track the visa normalization process.
