Zakir Naik’s Pakistan Tour: Controversial Welcome

Zakir Naik’s Pakistan Visit: Shadow of Arrest in India

As Zakir Naik walked out of Islamabad International Airport earlier this week, the Pakistan government rolled out the red carpet. Naik, wanted in India for inciting communal disharmony and laundering money, was welcomed in Pakistan with bouquets, hand-kisses, and warm smiles. This sparked massive criticism in India, as he was received by officials from the Ministry of Religious Affairs and PM Shehbaz Sharif’s aide, Rana Mashhood.

Zakir Naik, currently residing in Malaysia, is visiting Pakistan at the government’s special invitation. His visit highlights the relationship between the Pakistani state and controversial figures. Naik has been away from India since 2016 when the National Investigation Agency (NIA) initiated a probe against him.

Zakir Naik’s Pakistan Tour of 2024

Zakir Naik landed in Islamabad on Monday to commence his 15-day visit, although a Dawn report suggested that his stay, with foolproof security and protocol, could extend to a month. This is his first trip to Pakistan in over three decades, with the last being in 1992 when he met Sharia-preaching Islamic scholar Israr Ahmed.

During this tour, Naik will deliver public lectures in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. He is accompanied by his son, Fariq Naik, also an Islamic preacher. The Pakistani government has assured foolproof security for Zakir Naik during his stay.

Controversy Surrounding Zakir Naik’s Pakistan Visit

Naik’s arrival in Pakistan has not been without controversy. The ‘welcome’ of the radical wanted in India for money laundering and hate speech has led to criticism. Author and columnist Omer Ghazi stated that Pakistan’s decision to host him aligns with a nation built on “intolerance, bigotry, corruption, and radical extremism.”

Former Indian diplomat Kanwal Sibal noted that Naik’s invitation serves as a lesson for those advocating diplomatic engagement with Pakistan. “This invitation to Zakir Naik is a lesson for those promoting any diplomatic opening towards Pakistan,” he stated.

Pakistan’s Problematic Stance on Radicalism

Pakistan was founded on religious lines. While Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s historic speech emphasized freedom of religion, his other remarks indicate that such sentiments were hollow. The political landscape has been dominated by clerics and the military, allowing the Islamist constituency to thrive.

Zakir Naik’s status as a fugitive in India and his warm welcome in Pakistan indicate that he fits comfortably in this cultural environment. He will be among people who understand his language and share his cultural background during his visit.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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