06 Dec 2024 | 06:45 PM UTC
Bangladesh: Heightened security, rallies likely in Dhaka Dec. 9 during Indian Foreign Secretary's official visit
Tight security, rallies, related disruptions likely in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Dec. 9 in connection with Indian Foreign Secretary's visit.
Heightened security, rallies, and related disruptions to business and transportation services are likely in Dhaka on Dec. 9 during Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri's visit to the city. The diplomat will hold discussions with his counterpart, Bangladesh Foreign Secretary Mohammad Jasim Uddin, amid increased bilateral tensions. Although further details about the visit were not immediately available, potential venues for hosting the foreign secretary include the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the High Commission of India, Jamuna State Guest House, and other government buildings or diplomatic facilities.
Related protests are likely to occur on Dec. 9. In recent weeks, protests have intensified across Bangladesh in response to the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das, a Hindu religious leader, with demonstrations escalating in both size and violence, especially in Chattogram and Dhaka. Possible gathering locations include sites hosting the foreign secretary, government buildings, public squares, and thoroughfares. Well-attended rallies could attract thousands of participants.
Authorities will almost certainly maintain an increased security presence in various parts of the city. Depending on operational needs, officials may implement enhanced restrictions, including temporary road blockades. Clashes between activists and police, as well as between opposing groups, are possible. Isolated security incidents, including arson and vandalism, cannot be ruled out.
Exercise increased caution if operating in or near Dhaka on Dec. 9. Avoid all demonstrations due to possible clashes. Keep away from locations where security personnel appear to be deploying, and leave the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Allow additional travel time near gathering sites. Plan accordingly for potential localized business disruptions. Maintain contact with your diplomatic mission. Heed all official security and transport advisories.
Civil unrest in Bangladesh has generally intensified in recent months, with increased frequency and intensity of protests and work stoppages across various sectors. These periods of unrest often subside but tend to flare up intermittently as underlying political and social tensions resurface. The current wave of protests is the latest example of this ongoing pattern of instability, which periodically disrupts business operations and transportation services.
The arrest of Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das has fueled recent tensions between Bangladesh and India. In Bangladesh, demonstrations have remained intense in Chattogram and Dhaka, with some escalating into violence. The situation has also led to rallies in India, including a security incident at the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission in Agartala and the subsequent indefinite suspension of consular services at the affected facility. As bilateral tensions persist, the risk of further unrest and disruptions are likely during the Indian foreign secretary's visit.
