In a dramatic turn of events, radical Islamic preacher Zakir Naik’s X (formerly known as Twitter) account was withheld in India, triggering a wave of controversy. The move came after Naik’s ongoing tour in Pakistan, a nation that has embraced his radical rhetoric, angering Indian authorities. Naik’s account was blocked on October 4, 2024, amidst growing concerns that his speeches continue to incite religious hatred and inflame communal tensions in India.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs took swift action against the preacher’s digital presence, citing his anti-India narrative and concerns over communal harmony. Zakir Naik, known for his divisive sermons, fled India in 2016 after multiple allegations of hate speech and terror financing were leveled against him. Although the Indian government has sought his extradition multiple times, Naik has found refuge in Malaysia and continues to reach his followers through platforms like X, often stirring up religious and political divides.

Naik’s visit to Pakistan in October 2024 has further stoked tensions between India and Pakistan. The controversial preacher is currently delivering speeches in major cities across Pakistan, including Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. These sermons, widely criticized for promoting radical Islamist ideologies, have been eagerly received by sections of the Pakistani populace, leading to an outcry from Indian officials. The Ministry of External Affairs expressed its disapproval of Pakistan’s decision to host Naik, reinforcing the belief that his activities are detrimental to peace in the region.

The decision to block Naik’s X account in India is seen as a preventive measure to curb his influence within the country. Indian officials have long accused Naik of spreading hatred through his online platforms, which have millions of followers. This latest move aligns with India’s broader efforts to limit the reach of individuals deemed a threat to national security. Despite being silenced in India, Naik continues to be active on X in other parts of the world, where his messages remain accessible to his international audience.

Naik’s controversial presence in Pakistan has not only caused a diplomatic rift but also reignited public debates about freedom of speech, religious intolerance, and the fine line between religious discourse and hate speech. As his Pakistan tour continues, India remains vigilant, with authorities closely monitoring his activities and further tightening restrictions on his digital reach.

The expert take on zakir naik’s growing influence

Security experts have weighed in on the implications of Naik’s tour in Pakistan. According to one senior defense analyst, Naik’s influence is not just limited to religious matters; his speeches have political undertones that complicate the already volatile India-Pakistan relationship. While Pakistan has openly supported Naik, experts warn that this could lead to increased diplomatic friction and may be seen as an endorsement of extremism.

One media expert noted that by withholding Naik’s X account in India, the government is attempting to mitigate the risk of communal violence that could be sparked by his inflammatory rhetoric. While Naik’s supporters argue that the preacher is being unfairly targeted for his religious views, critics emphasize that his speeches often contain hate speech that violates the core principles of religious tolerance.

India’s crackdown on Naik comes at a time when the global community is urging social media platforms to do more in curbing extremism online. Major social media companies have already faced pressure to ban individuals who use their platforms to promote violence or hatred. The withholding of Naik’s X account in India is a continuation of this broader trend of government intervention in digital spaces, aimed at preventing the misuse of these platforms for divisive purposes.

Tensions mount as Zakir Naik continues Pakistan tour

Zakir Naik’s ongoing Pakistan tour is expected to last through the end of October 2024, with scheduled stops in various cities where he will engage with political and religious leaders. The preacher’s visit to Pakistan has not only bolstered his reputation in the country but also escalated tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly over the issue of terrorism and religious extremism.

While Naik’s supporters in Pakistan have hailed him as a leading religious scholar, Indian authorities have condemned his activities as a blatant provocation. Diplomatic relations between the two countries have already been strained, and Naik’s visit has further complicated the delicate balance. India has warned Pakistan that hosting a figure like Naik sends the wrong message and undermines efforts to foster peace in the region.

The story of Zakir Naik’s withheld X account is just one chapter in a larger saga of digital censorship, international diplomacy, and the fight against extremism. It highlights the growing role of social media in geopolitics and the challenges governments face in controlling content that has the potential to incite violence and division.

  India, Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, Malaysia, Ministry of External Affairs, Pakistan, X, Zakir Naik