Controversial Islamist Zakir Naik’s Twitter (X) Account Withheld In India

The 'X' account of controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik has been suspended in India. This decision followed closely on the heels of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) condemning Pakistan's reception of Naik, labeling it as "condemnable" while also noting that it was not "surprising."

Currently residing in Malaysia, Naik commenced a nearly month-long visit to Pakistan on Tuesday.

Naik's Visit to Pakistan

Zakir Naik, who arrived in Pakistan on Tuesday for a month-long visit at the invitation of the government, received a red-carpet welcome. Shortly after his arrival, he met with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar.

During his stay, Naik is expected to deliver a series of public speeches across major Pakistani cities, including Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore, according to a report by The Tribune, a Pakistani newspaper.

Who is Zakir Naik?

Zakir Naik is an Islamic preacher wanted by Indian authorities in connection with multiple cases, including alleged money laundering and inciting extremism through hate speeches. Since 2016, Naik has been living in Malaysia, where he fled after legal proceedings were initiated against him. His departure from India followed the July 2016 Dhaka terror attack, during which one of the attackers admitted to being influenced by Naik's sermons on YouTube. India has since sought Naik's extradition to face charges, but Malaysia has yet to honor the request.