Controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik arrived in Pakistan on Monday morning, receiving a red carpet welcome from Pakistani authorities. Naik’s visit, at the invitation of the Government of Pakistan, comes amidst tight security measures. His lecture series is scheduled in Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore.
Upon arrival at New Islamabad Airport, Naik was greeted by high-ranking officials from the Pakistani government, including Rana Mashhood, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Program, and Syed Atta-ur-Rehman, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, as reported by the Tribune. Naik himself posted a video showcasing his warm reception in the country.
According to news agency ANI, citing official sources, Zakir Naik’s month-long tour will include meetings with senior government officials and participation in several public events. On X, Zakir Naik’s team announced, “On the invitation of the Government of Pakistan Dr Zakir Naik & Shaikh Fariq Naik’s Pakistan Tour 2024 Public Talks: Karachi – 5th & 6th Oct Lahore – 12th & 13th Oct Islamabad – 19th & 20th Oct.”
But who is Zakir Naik, and why is he banned in India?
Zakir Naik is known for his inflammatory speeches and is currently wanted by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in connection with a money laundering case from 2016. He is also accused of inciting people through his hate speech. Naik operates a channel called PeaceTV, which has been banned in India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka due to its controversial content. Additionally, he has been denied entry into Canada and the United Kingdom for similar reasons.
Malaysia has stated that it will not deport the Islamic preacher unless he violates Malaysian laws, as he holds permanent residency status in the country. In March 2022, the Indian Home Ministry declared the organization Islamic Research Foundation (IRF) an unlawful association and imposed a five-year ban, citing Naik’s controversial remarks that allegedly praised known terrorists.
On August 20, while on a visit to India, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim addressed the 50th Sapru House Lecture and stated that if sufficient evidence is presented in the case related to fugitive preacher Zakir Naik, Malaysia will “not condone terrorism.” He emphasized that Malaysia is concerned about “sentiment of extremism, of compelling case, evidence that suggest that atrocities committed by an individual, group or factions or parties.”
Naik’s arrival in Pakistan has sparked controversy, with many questioning the Pakistani government’s decision to invite him given his controversial past. This tour is sure to draw significant attention and raise important questions about freedom of speech, religious extremism, and international cooperation in tackling terrorism.
