New Delhi: Zakir Naik, an Islamic preacher, has been making headlines during his visit to Pakistan, sparking outrage with his remarks and showcasing a sense of entitlement. His visit, seemingly intended to insult India, has triggered a diplomatic row between the two nations.
Naik’s first brush with controversy came during his travel to Pakistan when he was reportedly denied a full waiver on extra baggage charges by Pakistan International Airlines (PIA). He publicly criticized the airline, drawing a stark contrast between India and Pakistan, claiming that even a non-Muslim in India would have offered him free luggage.
“I spoke to the CEO of PIA. He said we can do anything for you doctor. Six of us were travelling: I said we had 500 or 600 kg extra luggage. He said we would give you 50 per cent luggage. I said, if you want to give, give a 100 per cent discount, otherwise forget about it. If anyone sees me in India, even a non-Muslim will let me in for free. This is India,” he said during his speech.
“On my visa, it says that I am a state guest and the CEO of PIA says we’ll give you (Zakir) a 50 per cent discount. They are charging so high, I felt so sad that Dr Zakir Naik is coming to the country. I don’t want your discount,” he added.
While in Pakistan, Naik’s sermons have continued to generate controversy. He made audacious claims suggesting that those residing in Pakistan have a better chance of reaching paradise than those living in the United States. His statements have been condemned by Pakistanis themselves, who find his pronouncements ridiculous and disrespectful.
One of the most controversial during a speech when he responded to a Pashtun girl’s question about paedophilia in a hardcore religious society by dismissing her query as “wrong” and demanding she apologise to God. His refusal to address the sensitive issue and his attempt to silence the questioner have drawn widespread criticism. “This is a wrong question and you should say sorry to God. When pressed further, he said, “I wouldn’t reply and wanted her to say sorry first.”
Indian officials have expressed their condemnation of Pakistan’s treatment of Naik, labelling it “disappointing and condemnable.” They believe that Pakistan is deliberately using Naik’s platform to insult India and Hindus, creating a tense situation that is likely to escalate tensions between the two nations.
