Bangladesh has temporarily barred Indian-born Islamic preacher Zakir Naik from entering the country amid discussions over a possible visit later this month, local media reported on Tuesday.
The decision was taken at a meeting of the Law and Order Core Committee at the Ministry of Home Affairs in Dhaka, according to reports in Prothom Alo and other Bangladeshi media outlets.
Home ministry officials told the newspaper that a group had invited Naik to speak at events in Dhaka on Nov. 28–29, with additional travel planned outside the capital.
However, authorities expressed concern that his public appearances could draw large crowds requiring security resources that are currently focused on preparations for upcoming national elections.
“It was discussed that if Zakir Naik comes to Bangladesh, there will be a large gathering. A significant number of law enforcement personnel would be required to manage the situation, which is not feasible at this moment,” a ministry source was quoted as saying by the newspaper. “It was decided that he may visit after the elections, but not before.”
Bangladesh blocked broadcasts of Naik’s Peace TV following the July 2016 Holey Artisan Bakery attack in Dhaka.
One of the militants involved had told investigators he had been influenced by Naik’s sermons online.
Naik, who faces money laundering and hate speech charges in India, left the country in 2016. He has been living in Malaysia since then. New Delhi has repeatedly requested his extradition. Malaysia has said the requests are under consideration.
