Dr Zakir Naik apologises for PIA comments after backlash

Islamic preacher Dr Zakir Naik has issued an apology for his remarks regarding Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) made during his ongoing visit to the country.

At a recent event, Dr Naik acknowledged the discomfort his comments caused and emphasised that his intentions were rooted in promoting peace between India and Pakistan.

While addressing the audience, Naik recounted a conversation with Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori, who urged him to overlook the incident regarding Pakistan's national carrier.

This prompted the preacher to reflect on the implications of his comments, and he recognised the social media backlash that ensued.

“I do not wish to foster any animosity between Indian and Pakistani brothers,” he stated, drawing a parallel to the divisions created during British colonial rule.

Zakir Naik is wanted in India facing multiple charges of terror funding, money laundering, and hate speech.

Dr Naik had previously spoken against PIA for its handling of his luggage during his travel to Pakistan, expressing disappointment over being offered only a 50% discount on excess baggage fees.

He remarked, “I was hurt that the airline could not accommodate my luggage needs as a state guest.” His comments highlighted what he perceived as a lack of hospitality, contrasting his experiences in India where he claimed he would be permitted to travel with greater excess luggage without charge.

Throughout his address, Dr Naik reiterated his commitment to peace, stating, “If my words have caused discomfort to my Pakistani brothers, I sincerely apologise.”

He emphasised that his ultimate goal is to attain a “passport to paradise,” rather than focusing on worldly matters.

His comments had sparked a backlash on many social media with users accusing the preacher of having a sense of 'entitlement.'

Dr Zakir Naik, who arrived in Pakistan on September 30 for a month-long tour, plans to hold lectures in major cities, including Karachi, Islamabad, and Lahore.

This visit marks his first trip to Pakistan in thirty years, following his last trip in 1992, when he met with the renowned scholar Dr Israr Ahmed in Lahore.