Why Bangladesh takes U-turn, denies entry to controversial preacher Zakir Naik ahead of polls

Dhaka: In a change of stand, Bangladesh has denied entry to controversial preacher Zakir Naik from entering the country until elections. The decision was taken at a meeting of top officials in Dhaka on Tuesday.

According to officials, the step was taken due to security and logistical concerns ahead of elections in the country early next year. A local organisation had reportedly invited Naik to speak at a two-day event in Dhaka on November 28 and November 29. He was also planning to visit various parts of the country. The proposal, however, was met with strong protests by civil society groups and various agencies.

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Reason behind the temporary ban on Naik

During the meeting, officials felt that Naik’s visit could attract a huge crowd, requiring heavy police deployment. This is at a time when law enforcement agencies are already stretched because of election duties. They decided that the decision on the same could be taken after the elections. They felt that public resources must be focused on peaceful national elections. “Security is already under tremendous pressure due to the election schedule," said an official was quoted by Bangladesh Daily, Prothom Alo.

Know about Zakir Naik

Zakir Naik has been a controversial figure across South Asia. After a deadly terror attack in Dhaka in 2016, the Indian authorities accused him of delivering speeches full of hatred. After fleeing the country, he settled in Malaysia, where he was given permanent residency.

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After the attack, the Sheikh Hasina government in Bangladesh banned his Peace TV channel. This, after one of the accused confessed to being inspired by his sermons. As per reports, the current interim government led by Muhammad Yunus had in the beginning cleared his visit from November 28.

Naik continued to remain wanted in India by on charges of encouraging communal hatred and delivering controversial sermons.