Controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik is in Pakistan for a month-long vacation and has criticized Pakistan International Airlines for charging extra baggage allowance fees. Naik had come from Malaysia on October 1, 2024, and is staying here until October 28.

Disappointment With Baggage Charge

Disappointment ruined the visit of controversial Islamic orator Zakir Naik right from the first day of his Pakistan visit when he was charged extra baggage allowance fees at the airport. He was carrying luggage weighing nearly 1,000 kg, and he was told over 500 to 600 kg would attract extra charges. In many ways, PIA offered him a waiver on excess baggage charges and 50%, and he could not accept it. He presented his grievances to his fans in Karachi, saying, “I told the station manager that I would rather have it for free or not at all”.

He said that generally, he is treated better in the matter of baggage charges there in India. “In India, any non-Muslim who sees me lets me travel without charges,” he said, deploring the inequality of treatment in Pakistan.

Public Reactions Over Naik’s Statement

Speaking to the audience, Naik compared India and Pakistan, saying “A guest is coming and bringing luggage. Money is not the problem; this is the state of Pakistan,” he said. His statements have elicited mixed reactions on social media with some criticizing him over his comments while others defend his stance on guest treatment.

Highlights Of Naik’s Visit

Naik’s visit is significant since it would be the first time he has visited Pakistan in over 30 years. The last time he was here was back in 1992, when he met a renowned scholar, Dr. Israr Ahmed, during his visit to Lahore. He will lecture in major cities such as Karachi, Islamabad, and Lahore during his current trip. An Indian citizen by birth but currently residing in Malaysia, Naik lives there because litigation against him prompted the courts of his homeland to issue an extradition warrant against him due to the number of serious charges leveled against him.