Alina
Zakir Naik Publicly Apology Over PIA Remarks
Zakir Naik Apologizes for PIA Comment Amid Backlash in Pakistan
Public Apology Over PIA Remarks
Islamabad: Controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, who is currently on a tour of Pakistan, issued a public apology on Friday, October 11, after facing severe criticism over his recent comments about Pakistan International Airlines (PIA). Earlier this week, a video of Naik criticizing PIA for charging him excess baggage fees went viral on social media, sparking outrage among the public, including his radical followers in Pakistan.
In the video, Naik was seen ridiculing PIA for not waiving off the excess luggage fees despite him being a “guest of the government.” He narrated how his luggage weighed 1000kg when he traveled to Pakistan and mentioned that PIA’s station manager had initially offered him a 50% discount on the excess baggage charges. Naik, however, insisted on getting a full waiver. “I made it clear to him to give it for free or leave it. In India, I am let off for free when my luggage is overweight. In Pakistan, despite being a state guest, I was offered only a discount. I felt disappointed with this treatment,” Naik expressed during one of his lectures in Karachi.
Criticism from Pakistani Public
Naik’s remarks did not sit well with the Pakistani public. Many took to social media to express their discontent over his sense of entitlement and criticism of PIA. A Pakistani content creator posted on X (formerly Twitter), “Whoever invited Zakir Naik, please don’t invite him again! PIA should’ve asked for FULL price. No real Islamic preacher would ask for special treatment—or publicly complain about it when they don’t get it!”
Journalist and gender equality advocate Absa Komal also joined the growing chorus of criticism. “This man Zakir Naik complains about not getting free baggage allowance from PIA, calls orphan girls ‘grown women,’ and belittles a girl for asking a legitimate question about pedophilia. He gains followers despite spreading this toxic mentality. We, as a nation, are attracting arrogant, women-hating individuals. The state should invite reasonable people, not extremists like him.”
Zakir Naik’s Public Apology
Realizing that his comments had triggered widespread backlash, Zakir Naik made a public apology. Speaking at an event in Pakistan, Naik said, “If my words have caused discomfort to my Pakistani brothers, I sincerely apologize. I had almost forgotten about the incident because my focus is on attaining a passport to paradise, not worldly matters.”
Naik’s apology, however, did little to quell the criticism. Many Pakistanis continued to criticize him for his extremist views and sense of entitlement. “We don’t deserve someone like Zakir Naik, an outdated and extremist individual who belongs to the Stone Age. If he’s your ideal, you should rethink your values,” wrote a Pakistani social media influencer on X.
Controversies Surrounding Zakir Naik’s Visit to Pakistan
Zakir Naik, who has been on the run from Indian authorities due to charges of spreading religious hate, extremism, and involvement in money laundering, arrived in Pakistan on September 30 with his son, Sheikh Fariq Zakir, on a comprehensive tour of the country. His visit was at the invitation of Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Since his arrival, Naik has been at the center of numerous controversies, particularly due to his extremist rhetoric. His comments about PIA were just one instance that fueled public outrage, but he has been criticized for promoting his jihadist mentality for years. Despite his controversial past, Naik continues to maintain a following in Pakistan, although his latest remarks seem to have alienated even some of his supporters.
Ongoing Backlash
Even though Zakir Naik apologized, the backlash from his remarks has not subsided. Many Pakistanis continue to criticize him for promoting extremist views. A Pakistani social media influencer shared his personal regret on X, stating, “I want to apologize that 15-20 years ago, I was impressed by Zakir Naik due to my lack of knowledge and immaturity. Today, I feel deeply ashamed and declare that he is just as vile and corrupt as other religious clerics.”
Naik, who has been banned in several countries, continues to draw controversy wherever he goes. His recent comments in Pakistan have only added to the growing list of people calling for him to be barred from public speaking. Whether his apology will have any impact on his reputation remains to be seen, but his visit to Pakistan has certainly left many with a bitter taste.
Disclaimer:
The content in this article is based on available information as of the publication date. The statements and opinions expressed are those of the individuals quoted and do not necessarily reflect the views of this website. The article aims to provide accurate and balanced coverage of the issue. Readers are advised to verify facts and consult official sources for further information.
