Bangladesh Bars Zakir Naik’s Entry, Says Interim Government Will Not Permit Controversial Preacher
Interim government decides not to permit Indian-origin preacher’s entry; organisers claim prior approval for event
Dhaka, Nov 5: The Interim Government of Bangladesh has decided not to allow Indian origin Islamic preacher Dr. Zakir Naik to enter the country, citing security and logistical concerns. The decision was finalised at a Law and Order Core Committee meeting held at the Home Ministry on Tuesday, chaired by Home Affairs Advisor Lieutenant General (Retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury.
According to a report by Prothom Alo, officials discussed the possible visit of Zakir Naik and the potential challenges it could pose. “If Zakir Naik comes to Bangladesh, there will be a huge crowd. A large number of law enforcement personnel will be needed to control the situation, which is not feasible at the moment,” sources at the meeting said.
The discussion came after Spark Event Management, a private company, announced on Facebook that it would host Zakir Naik for a Bangladesh tour in late November, claiming to have obtained government permission. “Spark Event Management is the sole authorised organiser of Dr. Zakir Naik Bangladesh Tour 2025. The event is being held with the permission of the Government of Bangladesh and in collaboration with the concerned authorities,” the company wrote.
However, officials clarified that no such permission had been granted and that Zakir Naik will not be allowed entry under the current security circumstances.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh’s Foreign Ministry also responded to comments made by India’s Ministry of External Affairs about the preacher’s proposed visit. Ministry spokesperson SM Mahbubul Alam said on Sunday, “We have taken note of the remarks made by the spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs of India regarding the possible visit of a prominent Islamic scholar to Bangladesh.”
He further emphasised, “We also believe that no country, including India, should provide shelter to any accused or fugitive individuals from another country.”
Zakir Naik, who faces multiple charges in India related to money laundering and hate speech, has been living in exile in Malaysia since 2016.
