A viral video featuring fugitive Islamic preacher Zakir Naik engaged in a heated argument with a young girl during a public event in Karachi has stirred controversy on social media. The girl, identifying herself as a Pashtun, questioned the prevalence of societal issues such as paedophilia, adultery, and drug addiction in Islamic communities, leading to a tense exchange.
During the event, the girl raised concerns about the existence of paedophilia and other moral failings in her community, despite the region’s strict adherence to religious teachings. She further questioned why Islamic scholars (ulemas) do not openly address these pressing issues.
Zakir Naik, the most famous Muslim scholar in South Asia, gaslights a Pashtun girl when she questions the collapse of society caused by religious extremism.
— Habib Khan (@HabibKhanT) October 6, 2024
Zakir Naik, known for his controversial views and strict interpretation of Islamic texts, responded by making light of her concerns. He initially joked that men should take after women by not leaving their homes unnecessarily. When the girl tried to expand on her point, he repeatedly interrupted her, insisting that she stay silent.
In response to the girl’s allegations, Naik denied the existence of paedophilia within the Muslim community, stating, “There is no mention of paedophilia in the Quran or any Islamic scripture.” He went on to accuse the girl of defaming Islam, asserting that “a Muslim can never commit sexual abuse against children.” As the girl attempted to further explain her perspective, Naik cut her off once again, demanding that she apologise for her statements.
The video of the interaction quickly went viral, drawing widespread criticism on social media. Many users accused Naik of gaslighting the young woman and trivialising her valid concerns. His dismissive attitude was viewed as an attempt to deflect from discussing the serious issues that plague society.
Zakir Naik, originally from Mumbai, India, has been a fugitive since 2017. He faces multiple charges in India, including terror funding, money laundering, and hate speech. His organisation, the Islamic Research Foundation, has been banned by the Indian government, and his passport has been revoked. Naik has since been living in Malaysia, where he was granted permanent residency under former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad.
Despite his legal troubles, Naik continues to deliver lectures and sermons, drawing both support and criticism. His detractors argue that his teachings promote an extreme and intolerant interpretation of Islam, contributing to the radicalisation of young Muslims.
India has condemned Pakistan for hosting Zakir Naik, expressing disappointment at the warm reception he received during his visit to Karachi. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, described Pakistan’s actions as “condemnable but not surprising.” He remarked that it was unsurprising for an Indian fugitive to receive such a welcome in Pakistan, though it remains a disappointing development.
As the controversy around Zakir Naik continues, many are left questioning the larger implications of his influence and the societal issues raised during the public event in Karachi.
