Kolkata: The Mamata Banerjee government on Wednesday 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. The opposition parties, however, related the decision to the civic polls in the state later this month, saying it was an effort to garner votes of the minority communities.