Zakir Naik in Pakistan: A Dangerous Gamble?
In recent global news, discussions about geopolitical unrest often focus on West Asia. But we shouldn’t forget that chaos can erupt anywhere—including South Asia, where India sits uncomfortably close to Pakistan, which some call “the terrorist summer camp” of the region. Pakistan has long been a focal point for extremism, and recent events only strengthen this perception. Enter Zakir Naik, a controversial televangelist wanted in India for inciting hate and money laundering. In a shocking move, Pakistan not only extended an invitation to Naik but has also praised his work, raising serious concerns about the potential impact on regional and global security.
Who Is Zakir Naik?
Zakir Naik is a well-known Islamic preacher, notorious for inciting hate between communities. His TV channel, ironically named “Peace TV,” has been linked to spreading extremist views. His speeches have reportedly inspired terrorist activities, including the 2016 Dhaka café attack, which claimed 22 lives. Following that attack, India banned his channel and his foundation, the Islamic Research Foundation, after investigations revealed money laundering schemes. Naik fled India and has been living in Malaysia, where he is also banned from delivering speeches for inciting racial tensions. Countries like the UK, Canada, and Bangladesh, a Muslim-majority nation, have also banned him .
Pakistan’s Dangerous Embrace of Naik
Despite Naik’s troubling record, Pakistan has rolled out the red carpet. On his recent visit, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with him, even praising Naik for his teachings. It’s alarming that a figure with such divisive views is being welcomed at the highest levels of government in a country already fraught with extremism. The real power in Pakistan, however, rests with the military, which may see Naik’s incendiary rhetoric as a useful tool to maintain influence over certain factions.
Naik’s presence in Pakistan could exacerbate existing sectarian tensions. Pakistan has a history of persecuting minority sects like the Ahmadis, and sectarian violence is already rampant. Adding an influential preacher like Naik, who has a history of denigrating not only other religions but also minority sects within Islam, could further destabilize an already volatile environment .
The Global Implications
Zakir Naik’s visit to Pakistan is not just an internal matter. Pakistan is a nuclear-powered state with a track record of supporting extremist elements. This development is troubling not only for India, which has long accused Pakistan of harboring terrorists, but for the entire world. With Naik’s history of inciting violence and the volatile nature of Pakistan’s internal politics, the international community should be alarmed. Pakistan’s decision to elevate Naik could have far-reaching consequences, potentially escalating extremism in the region and beyond .
Conclusion
Pakistan’s warm embrace of Zakir Naik is deeply concerning, especially considering the televangelist’s divisive history. His presence in a country already grappling with extremism and sectarian violence is a ticking time bomb. As a nuclear-powered state with deep-rooted extremist elements, Pakistan’s actions could have implications far beyond its borders. The world should be watching closely—and preparing for the fallout of this dangerous alliance.