The government on Wednesday said it remains hopeful of a smooth transition through the national election but wants to prevent the arrival of any “unexpected individuals” from abroad who may attempt to create an undesirable situation during the election period.

“We are not stopping the issuance of visas. Those who wish to come may apply for visas, and we will issue them as long as their purpose is valid,” Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain told reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, responding to a journalist’s query regarding reports of the suspension of visa-on-arrival facilities.

“You know, during the election period, there may be attempts to create unexpected situations. Some unwanted individuals may try to enter the country suddenly,” he said.

The adviser said the Ministry of Home Affairs is truly better positioned to comment on the matter, but acknowledged that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has received instructions in this regard.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Bhutan on Tuesday informed the general public that the Embassy of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh in Thimphu has officially conveyed that the government of Bangladesh has suspended the “Visa on Arrival” facility for all eligible countries, including Bhutan, with effect from 15 January to 15 February.

In view of this, Bhutan said, all Bhutanese nationals intending to travel to Bangladesh during the above period are advised to apply for a visa in advance through the Embassy of Bangladesh in Thimphu prior to their travel.

The Bhutanese ministry advised all travellers to take note of this change and make the necessary arrangements well in advance to avoid any inconvenience.

On 8 January, Touhid confirmed that they have asked their three key diplomatic missions in India to keep their visa sections closed for the time being on security grounds.

“What I have done is that I have asked our three missions to keep their visa sections closed for the time being. It’s a security issue,” he said while responding to a question at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at that time.

Asked about the matter, the adviser said on Wednesday they made the decision due to a special situation, noting that they have to look after the security of the missions.