Contentious radical Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, who is on a visit to Pakistan , again stirred significant controversy with his recent statement that residents of Pakistan have a better chance of reaching ‘Jannat’ (paradise) compared to those living in the United States. This assertion, made during a speech, has drawn widespread condemnation, even from Pakistani citizens.
Naik, who is in Karachi for a 10-day engagement at the invitation of the Pakistani government, claimed that the lifestyle in Pakistan is more conducive to spiritual fulfillment than in non-Muslim countries. His comments were met with skepticism and ridicule on social media, with one Pakistani national labeling him a “fraudster” and expressing concerns about the country’s socio-political climate.
Another user from India shared Naik’s comments, arguing that his statement holds some truth due to the prevalent issues of extremism and violence in Pakistan , suggesting that such conditions diminish the country’s reputation.
In a separate incident during his visit, Naik faced criticism for dismissing a question from a local woman about rising cases of pedophilia in Pakistan .
He reprimanded her for her query, claiming that her acknowledgment of such societal issues contradicted her identity as a practicing Muslim. His response prompted further outrage, raising concerns about his approach to serious social issues.
Naik, who has been living in Malaysia since leaving India in 2016 amidst allegations of money laundering and inciting extremism, has become a polarizing figure. India has expressed outrage over his warm reception in Pakistan , with External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal condemning the honor given to a fugitive in a neighboring country.
