A video clip of Islamic preacher Dr. Zakir Naik discussing his experience with Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has sparked a debate on social media. The clip, taken from his recent public talk, details a conversation he had with the PIA CEO regarding excess luggage charges on his flight to Pakistan.
During the talk, Dr. Naik shared that he was carrying 1,000kg of luggage and reached out to the PIA CEO to address the issue. According to Naik, the station manager offered him a 50% discount on the extra luggage. However, Dr. Naik refused the offer, stating that he would prefer the charges be waived entirely since he was traveling as a state guest of Pakistan. He expressed his disappointment, comparing his treatment in Pakistan to how he is treated in India, where, according to him, his luggage would have been allowed free of charge by non-Muslims out of respect for his status.
Dr. Naik, who arrived in Pakistan on September 30 for a month-long tour, expressed his frustration during the event, saying, “I am hurt to speak the truth, but this is Pakistan’s state.” He went on to say that although he loves Pakistan, he felt disrespected by the situation.
The preacher also used this incident to highlight the issue of bribery in Pakistan, as the discussion arose during a Q&A session where a participant mentioned having to pay bribes even for legal matters.
The video of Naik’s remarks has since gone viral, prompting mixed reactions from social media users. Some criticized the PIA’s handling of the situation, while others felt that Naik’s comparison between India and Pakistan was unfair.
Zakir Naik Lectures in Pakistan
This visit marks Dr. Zakir Naik’s first return to Pakistan in 30 years, during which he is scheduled to give lectures in cities such as Karachi, Islamabad, and Lahore. Despite the controversy, his tour is expected to draw significant attention as Naik continues to be a polarizing figure, known for his controversial views and legal challenges in India, where he currently faces multiple charges.