India, Nov. 5 -- Bangladesh has temporarily barred Indian-born Islamic preacher Zakir Naik from entering the country amid discussions over a possible visit later this month, local media reported on Tuesday.

The decision was taken at a meeting of the Law and Order Core Committee at the Ministry of Home Affairs in Dhaka, according to reports in Prothom Alo and other Bangladeshi outlets.

Home ministry officials told the newspaper that a group had invited Naik to speak at events in Dhaka on Nov. 28-29, with additional travel planned outside the capital.

However, authorities expressed concern that his public appearances could draw large crowds requiring security resources that are currently focused on preparations for upcoming national elec...