Controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik has stirred up another controversy during his visit to Pakistan. During a public event, Naik was asked by Hindu scholar Professor Manoj Chauhan how violence in the name of religion could be stopped and peace restored. Chauhan, quoting the Bhagavad Gita, called for people to focus on their karma and good deeds rather than resorting to violence.
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Welcome to Pakistan, Dr Zakir Naik. A legend of his own !! pic.twitter.com/PdUc1GyCZ8
— Usman Satti (@usmansatti476) September 30, 2024
Naik responded by stating that the key to peace was that “all must convert to Islam,” emphasizing that this was the solution laid out in the Quran. His remarks quickly spread across social media, sparking debates about religious extremism and tolerance.
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معروف مبلغ ڈاکٹر ذاکر نائیک اسلام آباد پہنچ گئے، 28 اکتوبر تک عوامی اجتماعات اور اعلیٰ حکومتی عہدیداروں سے ملاقاتیں کریں گے۔#92newshdplus #zakirnaik #islamabad #latest #breaking pic.twitter.com/vw9LoCo1Tf
— 92 News HD Plus (@92newschannel) September 30, 2024
This is not Naik’s first divisive statement. Over the years, he has been accused of inciting hatred and promoting extremist views. His Peace TV channel was banned in several countries after it was revealed that the perpetrators of the 2016 Dhaka café attack were inspired by his speeches. Additionally, in 2019, Naik faced criticism in Malaysia after making racially sensitive comments, leading to a ban on his public speaking there.
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Naik’s current visit to Pakistan, where he is delivering lectures and leading prayers, has raised concerns about its potential to fuel sectarian tensions. Despite being a fugitive wanted in India for money laundering and hate speech, he was warmly welcomed by Pakistani officials.