The recent visit to Bangladesh by Ibtisam Elahi Zahir, the general secretary of Pakistan’s Markazi Jamiat Ahle Hadithand a close aide of Jamaat-ud-Dawa chief Hafiz Saeed, has sparked concern among Bangladesh’s security agencies. Zahir, known for his hardline Salafi views and past links with banned militant figures, arrived unexpectedly on October 25 and has since embarked on a tour of sensitive border districts, including Rajshahi and Chapainawabganj.
According to intelligence sources, this is Zahir’s second visit since the interim government led by Mohammad Yunus assumed power. His repeated presence in northern border regions—long viewed as potential flashpoints for extremist activity—has drawn the attention of national security agencies monitoring cross-border religious networks.
After landing at Shah Makhdum Airport in Rajshahi on the evening of October 25, Zahir was received by Abdur Rahim bin Abdur Razzak, a member of Al Jamia as Salifa and son of Sheikh Abdur Razzak bin Yusuf, a figure previously linked to Ahle Hadith militancy in Bangladesh.
Local sources report that Zahir has already delivered speeches at several mosques in Nachol and other areas of Rajshahi, urging unity among Salafi adherents. He also met with Asadullah Al Ghalib, chairman of Ahle Hadith Andolan Bangladesh, who has himself faced allegations of militant ties in the past.
Zahir is expected to continue his tour into Rangpur, Lalmonirhat, Nilphamari, Joypurhat, and Naogaon during the first week of November. His visit is scheduled to culminate in a two-day Salafi conference at Dangipara, Pobar, Rajshahi, on November 6–7, before he departs for Pakistan on November 8.
The Pakistani preacher has previously faced international criticism for his extremist rhetoric, including remarks endorsing violence against apostates and condoning “sexual slavery.” The UK Charity Commission has investigated him multiple times, and rights groups have urged British authorities to ban his entry.
Bangladeshi security officials are reportedly assessing whether Zahir’s presence indicates attempts to revive or reorganize militant networks under the guise of religious outreach.
“Given his background and known affiliations, his activities in the border belt are being closely monitored,” a senior intelligence officer told reporters on condition of anonymity.
As the government continues efforts to curb extremism and maintain stability, Zahir’s visit has reignited debate over the influence of foreign religious networks and their potential impact on Bangladesh’s internal security landscape.