The Mamata Banerjee government has issued prohibitory orders banning the entry of VHP international vice president Praveen Togadia in West Bengal, arguing that his presence could lead to "communal tension" and disturb public tranquillity.
The Vishva Hindu Parishad leader, known for his controversial speeches, was slated to take part in a programme in North Dinajpur district on April 5.
A press note issued by the state home department on Wednesday said the "prohibitory orders under section 144 of the criminal penal code" were promulgated by the respective district magistrates or police commissioners on March 31.
The note signed by Home Secretary Basudeb Banerjee said the orders were issued "on the basis of information available with them".
"They apprehend that the entry of Dr. Praveen Bhai Togadia, his holding closed door or public meetings, rallies will lead to communal tension, and this would cause disturbance of the public tranquillity.
"Accordingly, these orders would be strictly enforced and Dr. Praveen Bhai Togadia is prohibited from entry into any district or police Commissionerate in West Bengal," the note said.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also holds the home portfolio.
The Odisha and Karnataka governments had recently banned Togadia from entering parts of the state, saying his presence could cause breach of peace.
Last month, Assam Police had prevented the VHP leader from delivering speeches in two places in the state, even as Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi denied imposing any ban on him.
