Controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, wanted in India for money laundering and hate speech, has been at the center of a heated debate following his recent visit to Pakistan. The 58-year-old preacher, who resides in Malaysia, was welcomed with open arms by the Pakistani government, sparking widespread criticism both domestically and internationally.
Naik arrived in Islamabad on October 1, marking his first visit to Pakistan in over three decades. He was greeted by officials from the Ministry of Religious Affairs and PM Shehbaz Sharif's aide Rana Mashhood, amidst tight security arrangements. The visit is part of a 15-day tour, although some reports suggest his stay could extend up to a month.
During his visit, Naik is scheduled to deliver public lectures in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. His itinerary includes meetings with high-ranking officials, including a call on Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who praised Naik's lectures as 'insightful and impactful.'
Controversies Surrounding Zakir Naik's Visit
Naik's arrival in Pakistan has not been without controversy. Critics argue that the government's decision to host him aligns with Pakistan's history of radical extremism and intolerance. Many see this move as an attempt to divert attention from the nation's political, constitutional, financial, and security challenges.
One of the most significant controversies surrounding Naik's visit is his behavior at an orphanage event in Pakistan. When asked to present awards to young orphan girls, Naik refused, citing religious reasons. He stated that the girls were 'non-mahrams' and could not be referred to as 'daughters,' sparking widespread criticism on social media.
Social media users and critics have labeled Naik's actions as 'peak misogyny.' Lawyer Saria Benazir described the incident as 'abominable' and 'sanctimony on display.' Noted economist Yousuf Nazar added that Pakistan does not need more fundamentalists like Naik, who already has too many.
The government's decision to invite Naik has also been criticized by former Indian diplomat Kanwal Sibal, who noted that this invitation serves as a lesson for those advocating diplomatic engagement with Pakistan. Sibal emphasized that such actions do not improve Pakistan's condition and instead risk escalating tensions with India.
Pakistan's Posture on Radicalism
Pakistan's history is marked by a complex relationship with radicalism. The country was founded on religious lines, despite Mohammed Ali Jinnah's speech advocating for secularism. The Islamic doctorisation under Zia-ul-Haq in the 1970s and 1980s further entrenched radical ideologies.
Former Prime Minister Imran Khan's inclination towards an 'Islamic touch' has also contributed to this environment. The banning of the sari for government officials and in colleges under Zia-ul-Haq's regime exemplifies the deep-seated hatred for anything Indian and Hindu.
This backdrop makes Naik's visit particularly contentious. His inflammatory speeches and radical views have led to bans in several countries, including India, Bangladesh, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Naik's Peace TV, which has a reported audience of over 100 million, faces a ban in India due to alleged money laundering and hate speeches. His organization, IRF, was banned in 2016 for encouraging followers to promote enmity and hatred.
Naik fled India in 2016 after Bangladeshi authorities claimed that one of the attackers on a cafe in Dhaka was inspired by his teachings. The incident left 22 people dead, and the NIA filed a charge sheet against him under Section 10 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
The timing of Naik's visit is crucial, as it coincides with Pakistan's political and constitutional challenges. The judiciary is as politically polarized as the rest of society, and the government is accused of denying political space to the opposition.
The Supreme Court's recent decision to revoke its earlier bar on lawmakers defecting against their party's policy line has paved the way for the government to garner support for constitutional amendments. Critics argue that this move is intended to divert attention from the nation's pressing issues.
Social activist Pervez Hoodbhoy has criticized the government's decision, stating that Naik's visit has added fuel to the fire of extremist sentiments in an already restive country. Hoodbhoy emphasized that Pakistan's commitment to embracing fundamentalism is evident in its decision to host Naik.
The controversy surrounding Naik's visit has also highlighted the strained relations between India and Pakistan. The invitation to Naik has raised eyebrows, with some experts viewing it as a move to fuel tension between the two nations.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's strong-worded reply to Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif's UNGA speech underscores the deep-seated tensions between the two countries. Jaishankar warned that Islamabad's actions will most certainly have consequences.
In conclusion, Zakir Naik's visit to Pakistan has ignited a new wave of conflict and controversy. The decision to roll out the red carpet for a controversial figure like Naik has significant implications for both Pakistan's internal dynamics and its relations with India.
