The controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, who was expected to return back to the country from Saudi Arabia on Monday morning, has cancelled his return. He may issue a clarification through video conferencing, police said.
The Muslim preacher Naik has come under the scanner of the Indian government following reports alleged that two among a group of terrorists, who killed 22 foreigners in a Dhaka café last week, were inspired by his speeches.
According to a senior IPS officer, his name first cropped in 2002-2003 amid a series of blasts in Mumbai. It led Mumbai crime branch to Islamic Research Foundation (IRF) that is founded and serves by Naik as its president. He was questioned extensively by the Mumbai Police, but could not gather any evidence that linked him to any act of terrorism.
“But since then Naik has been under continuous surveillance of the intelligence units and agencies,” a senior IPS officer who questioned Naik, said.
“There is little possibility that Naik would try to influence youths using a public platform like Peace TV. What is of question is, if Naik met any of the youth, who joined ISIS or any other terrorist organization, behind closed doors.”
Also Read: Bangladesh bans controversial Zakir Naik’s Peace TV!
Nandini
