NEW DELHI: In a significant diplomatic move, India has withdrawn all family members and dependents of its diplomats and officials stationed at various missions in Bangladesh. This precautionary evacuation, announced on January 20, 2026, comes ahead of a crucial election and referendum scheduled for February 12, amidst growing concerns over the security situation in the region.

Sources from the Indian diplomatic community indicated that the decision was made in light of increasing threats to Indian missions, particularly following a series of violent incidents that have fomented anti-Indian sentiment in Bangladesh. Notably, the shooting of Islamist youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi on December 12, 2025, has exacerbated tensions, leading to fears concerning the safety of Indian personnel. Reports suggesting that the attackers may have sought refuge in India further contributed to this atmosphere of insecurity.

In response to escalating threats, the Indian High Commission in Dhaka and other posts in Bangladesh remain fully operational, although the evacuation of dependent family members underscores the seriousness of the situation. Indian officials have formally reminded the interim government of Bangladesh that it is their duty to ensure the safety and security of Indian diplomatic missions.

The fraying diplomatic relations took a darker turn following the tragic lynching of Dipu Chandra Das, a member of Bangladesh's Hindu minority, on December 18, in what authorities are considering a reaction to Hadi's death. This incident sparked widespread protests across West Bengal, Assam, and Tripura, leading to a temporary suspension of visa services from Bangladesh to India.

With heightened security concerns and rising diplomatic tensions, the Indian government has taken these precautionary measures as a means of protecting its diplomatic staff and their families. The unfolding events will undoubtedly have significant implications for India-Bangladesh relations in the coming weeks, particularly with elections on the horizon.