The Union Home Ministry of India has rejected the Ministry of External Affair’s proposal to grant visa-on-arrival facility to Bangladeshi nationals.
The MHA also rejected the proposal of visa- free entry to citizens of Bangladesh under the age of 18 and over the age of 65, reported Zee News.
This came after the MEA had asked MHA to give its opinion to include the two issues as part of the tentative agenda of discussions during the visit of External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to Bangladesh between June 25-27.
The Indian MHA, however, did not rule out another MEA proposal — long-term multiple entry tourist visa for Bangladeshis under the age of 18 and over the age of 65.
The issue has generated strong reaction in Assam where Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi opposed the move and slammed the Narendra Modi government for toying the idea.
Gogoi’s reaction came after the MEA sought the opinion of Assam government, among other stakeholders, on the two issues.
“This proposal can be considered subject to certain conditions, including appearance of the visa-holder before the Foreigner Regional Registration Office every year,” a Home Ministry official said.
Currently, Bangladeshis get multiple-entry visa for one year and the proposal is to extend the facility up to five years.
Source: Dhaka Tribune
