From Ban to Welcome: Zakir Naik’s Return to Bangladesh Under Muhammad Yunus Government Stirs Controversy

Dhaka, October 2025: Bangladesh's interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, is set to host Zakir Naik, the controversial Islamic preacher and Indian fugitive, nearly nine years after his ban under former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Naik is scheduled to visit Bangladesh from November 28 to December 20, 2025, during which he will deliver a series of sermons across the country.

The decision marks a dramatic policy shift for Dhaka, which had previously accused Naik of spreading radical ideologies and inciting communal tensions. His return to the Bangladeshi stage has reignited debate over the country's handling of religious discourse and its diplomatic posture toward India.

A Return After Nine Years

Naik's last public appearance in Bangladesh was before the 2016 Holey Artisan Bakery terror attack in Dhaka, in which over 20 people were killed. Following the incident, investigators claimed one of the attackers had drawn "inspiration" from Naik's speeches. His Peace TV channel was subsequently banned, and Naik faced accusations of promoting sectarianism.

The current administration's decision to welcome him stands in sharp contrast to Sheikh Hasina's hardline stance against extremism. According to officials, Naik's visit will be "purely religious in nature," and his speeches will focus on "interfaith harmony and social values."

A Pattern Across Borders

Naik's visit follows a similar one to Pakistan in 2024, where he was received by several religious groups and political figures. Reports from that trip suggested Naik had met with individuals linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) - including Muzammil Iqbal Hashmi, Muhammad Harris Dhar, and Faisal Nadeem - all designated as international terrorists by the United States in 2008. These alleged meetings further deepened concerns about Naik's affiliations and influence across South Asia.

Ongoing Legal Troubles

In India, Naik remains a wanted fugitive. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed cases against him under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code (now Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita). He fled India in 2016, shortly after the Dhaka attack, and has been living in Malaysia, which has declined multiple Indian extradition requests.

Despite the allegations, Naik insists that his work promotes peace and interfaith dialogue, and denies any connection to terrorism or violent extremism.

Diplomatic Sensitivities

Analysts believe the Yunus government's decision could strain Bangladesh-India relations, especially at a time when both nations are navigating complex regional security dynamics. New Delhi has long viewed Naik as a destabilising influence due to his rhetoric and the following he commands through his global network of media platforms.