In light of the prevailing security situation in Bangladesh, the Indian government has advised the families of its officials stationed in the country to return to India. This decision, characterized as a precautionary measure, comes weeks ahead of the parliamentary elections scheduled for February 12.

Official sources indicate that the dependents of Indian officials working at the High Commission in Dhaka and other Indian posts in Bangladesh have been advised to return to India for the time being. The decision reflects concerns over law and order in Bangladesh. The Indian High Commission and its consulates will continue to function normally, providing uninterrupted diplomatic and consular services. Besides the High Commission in Dhaka, India maintains diplomatic posts in Chattogram, Khulna, Rajshahi and Sylhet.

This move signifies a heightened level of caution, with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) designating Bangladesh as a "non-family" diplomatic posting, effective from the beginning of the year. Until now, this designation was reserved for a small group of high-risk postings such as Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan. This decision means that Indian personnel posted to Bangladesh will no longer be permitted to take immediate family members with them.

The relations between India and Bangladesh have come under strain. India has been expressing concerns over attacks on minorities.