Islamic preacher Dr. Zakir Naik has arrived in Pakistan on September 30, 2024, where he is receiving a grand welcome despite facing legal challenges in India. Naik, who has been in self-exile in Malaysia since 2016, is accused of money laundering and hate speech in India.
During his visit, which will last until October 28, Naik is scheduled to deliver religious speeches in various cities and meet with top government officials. Upon his arrival at Islamabad airport, he was greeted by Rana Mashhood, head of the Prime Minister's Youth Program, and other officials from the Ministry of Religious Affairs.
On the same day, Naik met with Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and shared images of his visit on social media. He is also set to address the National Assembly of Pakistan and has plans for public addresses in Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore, as well as leading Friday prayers at several locations.
According to sources from the Pakistani Ministry of Religious Affairs, Naik is in Pakistan at the invitation of the government and will be provided full security during his stay. This marks Naik's first visit to Pakistan since 1992, when he met with Islamic scholar Dr. Israr Ahmed.
Naik is scheduled to speak at a religious conference in Karachi on October 5, with his final conference taking place in Islamabad on October 20. His son, Dr. Farik Naik, who is also an Islamic scholar, is accompanying him.
Dr. Zakir Naik is a controversial figure, wanted in India for allegedly spreading hate speech and money laundering. Countries like Canada and the UK have banned his entry due to these allegations. His teachings have been linked to terrorist acts, including a 2016 attack in Dhaka, Bangladesh, where one of the attackers cited Naik's speeches as an influence.
In recent developments, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, during his visit to India in August, stated that Malaysia would not extradite Naik unless sufficient evidence is presented regarding his alleged crimes.