LAHORE: Former Prime Minister of Pakistan Mian Nawaz Sharif on Monday met with renowned religious scholar Dr Zakir Naik in Jati Umra, Lahore.
Jang News reported that the meeting between the former premier and Dr Naik remained brief. Both gentlemen discussed various topics during the meeting.
It should be highlighted that Dr Zakir Naik met with Mian Nawaz Sharif during his last visit to Pakistan in October, 2024.
At that time, Dr. Zakir Naik was visiting Pakistan for a month-long tour at the invitation of the Pakistani government.
It merits a mention that the scholar made a few headlines regarding his numerous opinions that were deemed controversial by many. For instance, during his lecture, Dr Zakir Naik expressed his displeasure after the Pakistan airline officials refused to waive charges for extra baggage while he was travelling to Pakistan.
According to Dr Naik, the PIA official reportedly offered Dr Naik a 50 percent discount which he grudgingly refused. Dr Naik stated that even a Hindu officer would allow him to carry luggage for free.
Many social media users criticised the scholar for his comments and condescending tone, while some defended him.
It should also be highlighted that Dr Zakir Naik left India for Malaysia in 2016 when the Indian state accused him of money laundering and inciting extremism; he has not been convicted.
Another controversial exchange took place between Dr Zakir Naik and a female from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region. The girl, during the event, asked the scholar the reason behind rising trend of pedophilia in her native region despite the apparent existence of religious community.
Dr Naik took allegedly took offence at her question saying that Islam had nothing to do with the horrible practice and asked the young woman to apologise for her question.
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