In a major development, the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan announced permanent closure in New Delhi owing to the “persistent challenge from the Indian government.” Releasing an official statement on the closure of its diplomatic mission in New Delhi, the Afghan embassy said, “the decision follows the embassy’s earlier cessation of operations on September 30, a move made in the hope that the Indian government stance will favourably change to let the
mission operate normally.”

The embassy further said it was ‘cognisant’ that some may attempt to characterise this move as an internal conflict, allegedly involving diplomats who switched allegiance to the Taliban, adding “that this decision is a result of broader changes in policy and interests”. “To the Afghan citizens in India, the Embassy extends its sincere gratitude for their understanding and support throughout our mission’s tenure,” it added.

Despite “limitations in resources and power”, the Afghan embassy said it has worked “tirelessly for their betterment and in the absence of a legitimate government in Kabul”. 

The embassy also noted in its statement that over the past 2.3 years, the Afghan community in India has witnessed a significant decline, with Afghan refugees, students, and traders leaving the country. The number has nearly halved since August 2021, with very limited new visas being issued during this period, it added.