India Press Live: India Raises Concerns Over Zakir Naik’s Hospitality in Pakistan
India is expressing worry about Pakistan’s warm welcome to fugitive preacher Zakir Naik. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, highlighted the implications of Pakistan sheltering a wanted individual, especially after Naik’s recent meetings with former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.
India’s Stance on Zakir Naik’s Hospitality in Pakistan
During a weekly press briefing, Jaiswal addressed India’s perspective on Naik being hosted in Pakistan despite India’s extradition requests. “This is not the first time that he has been treated in Pakistan,” Jaiswal emphasized.
Jaiswal added, “It shows the kind of approach his hosts have and what it means for us, and what it means in terms of giving so much support to a person who is wanted here.”
According to a report by The Express Tribune, Naik recently met with former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz at their residence in Raiwind. The discussions between the scholar and PML-N leaders have not been officially disclosed.
Criticism Over Zakir Naik’s Meetings in Pakistan
Former Pakistan cricketer Mohammad Hafeez faced backlash after sharing images from his meeting with Naik on social media. Hafeez’s post captioned, “Pleasure meeting with Zakir Naik,” triggered strong reactions online, especially from Indian nationals.
One social media user remarked, “This is one of the reasons why the Indian cricket team and the Indian government do not want to come to Pakistan.” Naik is wanted by Indian authorities for alleged money laundering and inciting extremism.
In a letter to Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari on October 24, 2024, Reverend Azad Marshall, President Bishop of the Synod of the Church of Pakistan, expressed concerns about Naik’s remarks regarding the Christian community during his state guest visit to Pakistan.
