Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Bangladesh Approves Monthlong Tour for Fugitive Preacher Zakir Naik

The approval marks a reversal of Sheikh Hasina-era restrictions imposed after the 2016 Holey Artisan attack.

Overview

  • Event organisers say the Yunus-led interim government has cleared and is facilitating Naik’s nationwide visit from November 28 to December 20, 2025.
  • Naik’s trip would be his first to Bangladesh and follows years of bans on his media platforms after investigators linked one 2016 attacker’s inspiration to his online sermons.
  • Indian authorities have booked Naik under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act for alleged hate speech, and he has lived in Malaysia since 2016 without extradition.
  • Organisers report plans for an initial charity programme in Dhaka around November 28–29, possibly in the Agargaon area, with further details pending.
  • His planned visit comes after a Pakistan tour in 2024 where authenticated footage showed him with Lashkar-e-Taiba figures, heightening diplomatic and security concerns in the region.