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TL;DR
- Bangladesh’s interim government has canceled 589 diplomatic passports belonging to former ministers, MPs, and their families to prevent unauthorized travel.
- The Home Affairs Ministry issued a directive on September 3 to enforce strict surveillance and ensure compliance with the passport cancellations.
- Personal data stored in the passport department’s computer systems has been seized to prevent unauthorized renewal or replacement of the canceled passports.
- Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s ability to travel is restricted without a valid travel pass, highlighting the challenges faced by former officials post-government.
The interim government of Bangladesh has taken decisive action to cancel 589 diplomatic (red) passports issued to former ministers, members of parliament, and their family members, following the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government. This measure aims to prevent these individuals from leaving the country or traveling to third countries without proper authorization. The Ministry of Home Affairs issued a directive on September 3, emphasizing strict surveillance to ensure compliance.
The cancellation of these passports is part of a broader effort to address issues related to diplomatic privileges and ensure accountability. The government has also seized personal data stored in the computer systems of the passport department, making it difficult for those affected to renew or replace their passports without undergoing a stringent legal process. This move is intended to close loopholes that might allow unauthorized travel or the seeking of political asylum abroad.
Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who reportedly holds a 10-year e-passport, is among those affected by the cancellation. Her ability to travel outside India is now restricted unless she obtains a valid travel pass from the destination country. This restriction highlights the challenges faced by former officials in navigating international travel post-government.
The directive also affects former high-ranking officials and those with ties to the previous administration. Many have attempted to switch from diplomatic to ordinary passports, often requiring clearance from intelligence agencies. This development underscores the interim government’s commitment to tightening control over diplomatic privileges and ensuring that former officials comply with legal and procedural requirements.
News Source: Jugantor
