India has expressed its strong disapproval of controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik’s recent visit to Pakistan, with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) labeling it as “condemnable” but “not surprising.” MEA spokesperson Randheer Jaiswal, addressing the media during a press briefing on Friday, stated that India is disappointed by the warm reception Naik received in Pakistan.
“We have noted reports that Zakir Naik has been hosted in Pakistan and warmly welcomed there,” Jaiswal said. “It is not surprising to us that an Indian fugitive has received a high-level welcome in Pakistan. It is disappointing and condemnable but not surprising,” he added.
Zakir Naik, who is wanted in India for alleged money laundering and inciting extremism through hate speeches, arrived in Pakistan earlier this week. His visit, scheduled to last until October 28, will include a series of lectures in major cities such as Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi. This marks Naik’s first visit to Pakistan since 1992. He is also expected to meet with several top officials during his stay.
#WATCH | MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, “We have seen reports that he (Zakir Naik) has been feted into Pakistan and warmly welcomed there. It is not surprising for us that an Indian fugitive has received a high-level welcome in Pakistan. It is disappointing and… pic.twitter.com/ZqWjr2ayln
— ANI (@ANI) October 4, 2024
Zakir Naik’s Controversial History
Naik, 58, fled India in 2016 following charges of inciting extremism and money laundering. Since then, he has been residing in Malaysia, where he holds permanent residency. His channel, ‘Peace TV,’ has been banned in India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka for its alleged role in promoting controversial content. Naik has also been denied entry into countries such as Canada and the United Kingdom.
His visit to Pakistan comes at a time when his criticism of India’s government, particularly regarding the proposed Waqf Amendment Bill, has intensified. Recently, Naik accused the Modi government of attempting to seize thousands of mosques, madrasas, and acres of land belonging to Indian Muslims through the proposed legislation.
Kiren Rijiju’s Response
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju responded to Naik’s remarks, accusing the fugitive preacher of spreading “false and fake propaganda.” Rijiju further asserted that Naik’s statements were aimed at creating communal disturbances in India.
Zakir Naik’s visit has sparked further tensions between India and Pakistan, with India maintaining its strong stance against the preacher’s actions and his ongoing presence in Pakistan.
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