Zakir Naik's Social Media Account Blocked in India After Pakistan Visit

In recent developments, the social media account of Islamic preacher Zakir Naik on the platform "X" (formerly known as Twitter) has been blocked in India. This decision comes in the wake of Naik's visit to Pakistan, which has sparked a wave of diplomatic tensions between the two neighboring countries. During his time in Pakistan, Naik was warmly welcomed, raising eyebrows in India, where he is considered a fugitive.

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has expressed strong disapproval regarding Naik's reception in Pakistan. MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, during a media briefing, stated, "It is not surprising for us that an Indian fugitive has received a high-level welcome in Pakistan. It is disappointing and condemnable but at the same time not surprising." This statement underscores the ongoing strain in India-Pakistan relations, particularly concerning individuals like Naik, who are wanted for serious charges.

Zakir Naik, the founder of the Islamic Research Foundation, is wanted in India on multiple charges, including money laundering and inciting extremism through his speeches. His legal troubles intensified after the July 2016 Dhaka terror attack, where one of the attackers claimed to have been influenced by Naik's sermons available on YouTube. Following these allegations, Naik moved to Malaysia in 2016, where he has been living ever since, despite India's persistent requests for his extradition.

Naik's recent visit to Pakistan was at the invitation of the Pakistani government, and he was given a red carpet welcome. During his stay, he met with prominent leaders, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar. His itinerary includes a series of public speeches in major cities such as Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore, which have drawn significant attention from Indian authorities due to his controversial background.

The blocking of Naik's social media account in India is a significant move amid the rising diplomatic tensions between the two countries. As India continues to seek Naik's extradition, the situation remains complex, with both nations closely monitoring developments. The Zakir Naik controversy is likely to remain a focal point in the ongoing dialogue between India and Pakistan, highlighting the challenges of international law and diplomacy.

The case of Zakir Naik serves as a reminder of the intricate web of international relations and the impact of individual actions on diplomatic ties. As the situation unfolds, it will be interesting to see how both countries navigate this sensitive issue and what it means for their future interactions. The ongoing scrutiny of Naik's activities and the responses from both governments will undoubtedly keep this story in the headlines for the foreseeable future.