New Delhi: The proposal of granting visas to Bangladeshi nationals on arrival by MEA was rejected by the Union Home Ministry on Monday.

According to MEA's proposal, Bangladeshi nationals under the age of 18 years and over the age of 65 years were to be entertained with 'visa-on-arrival' facility. The MHA rejected the proposal on Monday.

An official of Home Ministry said in a statement "We have outrightly rejected the two proposals. We have already communicated to the MEA our strong objection to the proposals."

It is notable that MEA Sushma Swaraj will be visiting Bangladesh between June 25 and June 27.

Congress has attacked the government on the issue. Also, Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi has condemned the idea after Assam Government asked for his opinion.

However, the long-term multiple entry tourist visas for Bangladeshis under the age of 18 and over the age of 65 is also in the row yet and is not ruled out by MHA.

The Home Ministry official said "This proposal can be considered subject to certain conditions, including appearance of the visa-holder before the Foreigner Regional Registration Office every year."

Sushma Swaraj will visit Bangladesh by the end of the month which is also her first visit abroad as the Minister of External Affairs. The government is trying to reach out to its neighbours through such efforts.

Image: PTI photo of MEA Sushma Swaraj