Siliguri Hoteliers in Bengal End Ban on Room Rentals to Bangladeshis After 13 Months
Synopsis
In a significant policy shift, the Greater Siliguri Hoteliers’ Association has lifted the ban on accommodating Bangladeshi nationals after nearly a year of restrictions. The decision comes in light of improved political conditions in Bangladesh, raising hopes for better bilateral relations.
Key Takeaways
GSHA lifts ban on renting rooms to Bangladeshi nationals.
The ban was in place for nearly 13 months .
Decision made due to improved political conditions in Bangladesh.
Warning issued that the ban could be reinstated if tensions rise again.
Reflects ongoing diplomatic relations between India and Bangladesh.
Kolkata, Feb 23 (NationPress) The Greater Siliguri Hoteliers’ Association (GSHA), a prominent group of hoteliers located in Siliguri, within the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, announced on Monday that the ban on renting hotel accommodations to citizens from Bangladesh has been lifted after nearly 13 months. This restriction was put into place last year as a response to what the association termed a series of anti-India incidents and attacks on minority Hindus in Bangladesh during that time.
On Monday, the GSHA issued a statement declaring that the decision to revoke the ban was influenced by the recent improvements in the political climate in Bangladesh, which followed the general elections earlier this month that led to the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) taking power.
The hoteliers’ organization also formally communicated with the District Magistrate of Darjeeling, notifying the local administration about the decision to allow Bangladeshi citizens to once again rent hotel rooms.
Nonetheless, GSHA officials warned that the ban could be reinstated if there were any future occurrences of anti-India activities in Bangladesh.
Bangladesh experienced a turbulent political period after the Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League government fell. During this time, several political figures in Bangladesh made statements that were critical of India, with some perceived as threats to India's territorial integrity, particularly concerning the northeastern states.
As these tensions escalated in Bangladesh, the Indian government temporarily suspended its visa services in the country, impacting cross-border travel and tourism.
In light of these events, various hoteliers’ associations across West Bengal, including the GSHA, had implemented restrictions on housing Bangladeshi nationals as a security measure and a form of protest.
“The animosity directed towards India in Bangladesh during the unrest prompted us to prohibit Bangladeshi tourists after thorough discussions and a vote within our association. However, with the establishment of the new government earlier this month, we are hopeful for the restoration of friendly relations between India and Bangladesh. Therefore, we have decided to lift the ban on Bangladeshi tourists following a consensus among our members. The district administration has also been notified about this decision,” stated GSHA Joint Secretary Ujjwal Ghosh.
He reiterated that the restriction could be reinstated if anti-India activities resurface in Bangladesh.
Point of View
The lifting of the ban on renting rooms to Bangladeshi citizens reflects a potential thawing of relations between India and Bangladesh, contingent upon political stability in the neighboring country. It underscores the importance of diplomatic ties and the tourism sector's role in fostering goodwill.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the ban on renting rooms to Bangladeshis imposed?
The ban was imposed as a protest against various anti-India activities and incidents of violence against minority Hindus in Bangladesh.
What led to the lifting of the ban?
The decision to lift the ban was influenced by the improved political situation in Bangladesh following the recent general elections.
Could the ban be reinstated?
Yes, GSHA officials have indicated that the ban could be reimposed if any anti-India activities occur in Bangladesh in the future.
How long was the ban in effect?
The ban was in effect for nearly 13 months.
What was the response from the Indian government during the unrest in Bangladesh?
During the unrest, the Indian government temporarily closed its visa centers in Bangladesh, affecting cross-border travel.
