India again closed my X account for praising Pakistan: Dr Zakir Naik
Dr Zakir Naik
LAHORE: (Shahzad Ahmad) Dr Zakir Naik, a renowned Islamic scholar in the world but controversial in India, said on Wednesday that India has closed his X (formerly Twitter) account for praising Pakistan during his visit to the country.

The world renowned Islamic scholar stated this during his speech at Karachi University.

India’s The Economic Times reports, “India has moved to withhold Dr Zakir Naik’s ‘X’ account restricting access to the controversial Islamic preacher’s social media in the country. This action followed hours after Pakistan warmly welcomed Naik…”

Also India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) “condemned” the way Pakistan feted the religious scholar, who is on a month-long visit to the country.

His presence in Pakistan has led to renewed diplomatic tensions, with India sharply criticising Islamabad for hosting him, another India media said.

“We have seen reports that he (Zakir Naik) has been feted in Pakistan. He has been warmly welcomed there,” it quoted MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal as saying at a media briefing.

“It is not surprising for us that an Indian fugitive has received a high-level welcome in Pakistan. It is something which is disappointing and condemnable but at the same time it is not surprising,” he added.

Naik, who arrived in Pakistan at the invitation of the government on Tuesday for a month-long visit, was given a red-carpet welcome and subsequently met with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar.

During his month-long stay, Naik is set to deliver a series of public speeches in key Pakistani cities such as Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore.

Earlier, Dr Zakir Naik highlighted the importance of unity among the Muslim Ummah under the guidance of the Holy Quran and Sunnah.

Calling for providing equal opportunities to learn, grow and prosper, Dr Zakir underscored that acquiring religious and terrestrial knowledge is incredibly important in Islam for social development.

He said, “The first word revealed to Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him)  was “read” – a critical component in attaining knowledge.”

Giving references from various Quranic verses, he highlighted the significance of knowledge and learning being emphasised upon the Muslims at the forefront of discovery and intellect above all others in the world.

Highlighting the importance of unity, he urged the Muslim Ummah to set aside their differences and unite under the guidance of the Holy Quran and Sunnah.

He reiterated that Islam is a complete code of life, advocating for peace, tolerance, and love.

On the occasion, a special documentary on orphans was showcased, illustrating more than 10,000 children receiving essential support, including food, access to education, vital medical care, and treatment in the Sweet Homes.