India on Tuesday decided to withdraw the families of its diplomats posted in Bangladesh in view of the prevailing security situation, Indian English-language daily The Economic Times reported.
New Delhi’s move comes weeks ahead of the parliamentary elections scheduled to be held in Bangladesh.
“Given the security situation, as a precautionary measure, we have advised the dependents of our officials at the high commission and other posts to return to India,” official sources said.
They added that the Indian mission and all diplomatic posts in Bangladesh will continue to remain open and fully operational.
Apart from the high commission in Dhaka, India has diplomatic posts in Chattogram, Khulna, Rajshahi and Sylhet.
It is not immediately known when the families of the diplomats and other officials will return to India.
It is learnt that India has decided to designate Bangladesh as a “non-family” destination for Indian diplomats and officials in view of safety concerns following increased activities of extremist elements in the country.
In the neighbourhood, Pakistan is also a “non-family” destination for Indian diplomats and officials.
Relations between India and Bangladesh have come under strain since the interim government headed by Muhammad Yunus assumed power following the collapse of the Sheikh Hasina government in August 2024.
India has been expressing concerns over attacks on minorities, particularly Hindus, in Bangladesh.