Zakir Naik Faces Backlash During Pakistan Tour

Recently, Dr. Zakir Naik, a controversial Islamic preacher, sparked outrage during his visit to Pakistan. Speaking at the Governor House in Karachi, he expressed dissatisfaction with the hospitality he received, particularly regarding his luggage. Naik claimed that the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) offered him a mere 50 percent discount on his excess baggage, which weighed 500 kilograms. He lamented, “If I were in an Indian airport, they would even let me load 1000 KG of baggage free in the plane,” emphasizing that he had never faced such charges in India. His comments raised eyebrows, especially since he referred to himself as a "state guest" in Pakistan, yet felt that his extra luggage should have been accommodated without charge.

In response to Naik's remarks, actor Aijaz Aslam took to Instagram, suggesting that Naik should reflect on the contents of his luggage. He wrote, “Practice what you preach sir 🙏 , check tou ye bhee karna chahiye tha k 600 kg saman Mein Kya tha.” This comment highlights the absurdity of carrying such a heavy load, especially when one is a guest in another country.

Furthermore, Naik's controversial statements did not end with his luggage complaints. He made a shocking remark regarding women, stating, “If you ask a good (pious) woman that if you’re not able to find a man who doesn’t have a wife and you have two options, marry a man who is already married or become a bazaari aurat, then a good woman will always say that I’ll go for the first one.” This statement horrified many, including celebrities like Iffat Omar, Nadia Hussain, and Anoushey Ashraf, as well as journalist Syed Shafaat Ali Khan.

Absa Komal, another prominent figure, expressed her dismay on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “This man Zakir Naik thinks 13-14 years old orphan girls are ‘khawateen’ (grown-ups) & he can’t share the stage with them. He publicly criticizes the national airline for denying luggage fee waiver, also says that women who choose to remain unmarried instead of becoming a second wife to someone are public property (bazaar).” She further criticized the public's reaction, saying, “Despite all this, gained some more followers, & some brain dead people are defending him.”

Actress Anoushey Ashraf also shared her thoughts on Instagram, questioning the societal pressure on women regarding marriage. She wrote, “First we say, Allah makes pairs and one’s wedding happens when God wills it. Then we say ‘you’ve got to be someone’s second wife or a bazaari aurat’ if you’re not married in time? How can I be married if Allah hasn’t willed it yet?” This sentiment resonates with many who feel the weight of societal expectations.

Nadia Hussain echoed similar sentiments, stating, “Unmarried women, you are not bazaari, you are not public property. Married or not married, children or no children you are respectable members of society.” This powerful message serves as a reminder that every individual deserves respect, regardless of their marital status.

The backlash against Dr. Zakir Naik's comments reflects a broader societal issue regarding the treatment of women and the expectations placed upon them. It is crucial for society to foster an environment where women are valued for who they are, rather than judged based on their marital status. As discussions around these topics continue, it is essential to promote respect and understanding, ensuring that everyone, regardless of gender, is treated with dignity and honor.