The controversial Islamic preacher, Zakir Naik, who fled India and settled in Malaysia, is currently touring Pakistan. He is conducting programs in cities like Islamabad and Karachi, which have sparked viral videos and debates. Many in Pakistan are targeting Naik for his controversial statements. Pakistani journalist Mubasher Lucman has critiqued the Shehbaz Sharif government for inviting Naik as an esteemed guest, calling Naik 'India's worst export.'
Zakir Naik has been declared wanted by India's Enforcement Directorate (ED) and National Investigation Agency (NIA) for inciting speeches, money laundering, and supporting terrorism. His name surfaced in connection with the 2016 Dhaka bombing, where an attacker claimed to be influenced by Naik's videos. Following this incident, Naik fled India with his family to Malaysia, where he also acquired citizenship.
He arrived in Pakistan with his son, Farik Naik, at the invitation of the Pakistani government and will remain there until October 28. Upon his arrival, multiple ministers welcomed him. Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Mohammad Ishaq Dar, also met with him.
'Why Did Pakistan Invite Naik as a Guest?'
Journalist Mubasher Lucman expressed strong disapproval of his government's decision to invite Naik. In an interaction with our partner site, India Today, he said, 'Frankly, I have no idea why Naik has been invited as a state guest. I have serious reservations about this. In my opinion, Naik is India's worst export.'
Lucman, who identifies as a Muslim, expressed his love for his faith.
He further said, 'I am greatly influenced by Muslim scholars who spread love and goodwill. But every time I listen to Zakir Naik, he spreads hate. It seems he went through bad experiences in his childhood, and now that negativity is coming forth. Yet, there remains a segment of people in Pakistan who idolize him like maniacs, while another segment despises him. I don't believe Naik should be allowed to preach publicly.'
What Did Naik Say About India Before Heading to Pakistan?
Before leaving for Pakistan, an interview of Zakir Naik surfaced, where he spoke about India. In a conversation with Pakistani YouTuber Nadir Ali, Zakir Naik mentioned that all possibilities of his return to India ended in 2019. In the same year, on August 5, the Indian government removed Article 370, revoking the special status of Jammu and Kashmir.
Commenting about India, Naik said, 'It's not easy to go back to India, stepping out is difficult. They won't roll out red carpets for me... they’ll tell me to come and sit in jail... obviously, they'll arrest me, as I'm labeled their number one terrorist, Zakir Naik.'
