Preacher Zakir Naik criticizes Pakistan airline over baggage fees

Controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, who is currently in Pakistan, was apparently furious over baggage fees in India's neighboring country saying that even an Indian Hindu would let him carry his bags for free.

In a widely shared video on internet, Naik is visibly furious when he arrived in Pakistan because its national airline PIA refused to waive fees for additional baggage.

Naik was furious when he arrived in Pakistan because the national airline of that nation refused to waive fees for additional baggage.

The preacher on the run was allegedly offered a 50% discount by Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), but he reluctantly declined.

“I spoke to the CEO of PIA. He said we can do anything for you, doctor. Six of us were travelling; I said we had 500 or 600 kg of extra luggage. He said we will give you 50 percent luggage. I said, if you want to give, give a 100 percent discount; otherwise, forget about it. If anyone sees me in India, even a non-Muslim will let me in for free. This is India,” Naik said.

While discussing the current condition of affairs in Pakistan, he said, “On my visa, it says that I am a state guest, and the CEO of PIA says we’ll give you (Zakir) a 50% discount. They are charging so high. I felt so sad that Dr. Zakir Naik is coming to the country. I don’t want your discount.”

Naik, a Malaysian resident, arrived in Pakistan last week on a visit that will last over a month. Naik, who is well-known for making outrageous statements, scolded a Pashtun girl on Oct 6 after being questioned about paedophilia during one of his speeches.

When asked about hardline religious society and the issue of paedophilia during one of his sermons, Naik said, “This is a wrong question, and you should say sorry to God. I wouldn't reply and wanted her to say sorry first."

During one of his speeches, Naik previously said that individuals living in Pakistan have a better chance of entering 'Jannat' (heaven) than those living in the United States, a comment that was denounced by even Pakistanis.

A Pakistani person said, “This man, Zakir Naik, is not only a fraudster but takes ridiculousness to a whole new level... He's a disgrace.”

As Naik's statements gained traction on social media, top government officials said that he was attempting to humiliate not only India but also Indian religious figures.

According to the sources, the controversial Islamic preacher is brought to Pakistan with the specific intention of offending Hindus.

"India is very clear that Pakistan is intentionally insulting us, and we will definitely take this agenda in relevant forums,” it added.

An Indian source said on Oct 7 that although Pakistan's celebration of Naik was "condemnable," it was not “surprising.”

"We've heard rumours that Zakir Naik has received accolades in Pakistan. At his weekly media briefing, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "He has been warmly welcomed there.”

“It is not surprising for us that an Indian fugitive has received a high-level welcome in Pakistan. It is something that is disappointing and condemnable, but at the same time it is not surprising,” he added.