Zakir Naik’s Heated Debate with Girl on Islam and Paedophilia, Video Goes Viral
Controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik sparked widespread outrage on social media after a heated exchange with a Pashtun girl who raised concerns about the increasing prevalence of child sexual abuse in her community.
A recent video surfaced on social media showing fugitive Islamic televangelist Zakir Naik during a public gathering in Karachi, Pakistan. In the clip, Naik berates a girl for questioning the presence of social evils like paedophilia, adultery, and drug addiction in Islamic societies.
The girl, identifying herself as Pashtun, questioned, “Why are there so many evils like paedophilia, adultery, and drug addiction in my community despite being strictly religious? Why do the ulemas (Muslim scholars) not speak out against them?”
Naik first responded flippantly, joking that men should stay indoors like women. However, when the girl attempted to elaborate on the rising normalization of paedophilia in her region, Naik interrupted her, telling her to be quiet so he could answer. He declared, “There is no mention of paedophilia in the Quran or any Islamic scripture.”
Known for his staunch defence of Islamic principles, Naik accused the girl of defaming Islam, adding, “A Muslim can never commit sexual abuse against children.” He demanded an apology from her, further escalating the exchange.
Naik’s dismissive attitude and refusal to acknowledge the girl’s concerns sparked widespread criticism online. Many accused him of gaslighting and ignoring the serious issues she raised.
Zakir Naik, born in Mumbai, has been declared a fugitive by India, facing multiple charges, including terror funding, money laundering, and hate speech. His organisation, the Islamic Research Foundation, was banned, and his passport revoked by the Indian government. Since 2017, Naik has lived in Malaysia, where he continues to deliver sermons and lectures.
Critics argue that Naik’s teachings often misinterpret Islamic scriptures, promoting a narrow and intolerant view of Islam. They contend that his speeches have contributed to the radicalization of young Muslims.
