Former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina has been barred by the military-backed interim government from coming back from the US on the grounds that her return could 'deteriorate' law and order and 'disrupt' the existing stability and public security.
In a statement, the Home Ministry said on Wednesday that the interim administration took a 'temporary step' to restrict the return of Hasina, the chief of the Awami League party.
The development follows Hasina's recent 'provocative and inflammatory' remarks against the government and law enforcement agencies.
"On her return home, she may make provocative statements like before and try to create irritation in public mind and mislead the people," said the statement.
Hasina, who is in the United States on a private visit, was expected to return home on April 23.
The statement said immigration officials at all airports and land ports, all flight operating airlines authorities, police and concerned ministries have been directed to take 'necessary measures' on the matter.
'The state of emergency became inevitable in Bangladesh because of the anarchic situation frustrating public order, security and economy of the country caused by the irresponsible street campaigns by Awami League under her (Hasina's) leadership and other political parties. Although she is staying abroad, she made different provocative and irritating comments regarding the current caretaker government and the law enforcement agencies', the statement said.
It stated that Hasina could continue to make such comments on her return, 'which could deteriorate the law and order and disrupt the existing stability, public security and economic activities'.