India withdraws families, dependents of diplomats and officials from all missions in Bangladesh

Ahead of the February 12 election and referendum, India has withdrawn all family members and dependents of diplomats and other officials from the High Commission of India and other missions located in Bangladesh, official sources said on Tuesday (January 20, 2026), citing prevailing security situation

A source informed that the evacuation of family members and dependents was carried out “given the security situation, as a precautionary measure”. Indian diplomats, however, said the Indian High Commission in Dhaka and all Posts in Bangladesh continue to operate in ‘full strength’.

Indian missions have been facing heightened security threat in Bangladesh, especially in the aftermath of the December 12, 2025 shooting of Islamist youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi. The threats started soon after reports and rumours were circulated suggesting that the shooters of Hadi had fled to India like deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.