"I really want to know who thought of inviting him as a State Guest, who?"
Iffat Omar publicly condemned the decision to invite renowned Islamic scholar Dr Zakir Naik to Pakistan as a “state guest”.
Iffat took to X to voice her disappointment, sharing two videos that highlighted her concerns about the scholar’s recent behaviour and statements.
In the first video, Dr Naik is seen complaining about PIA’s CEO.
He revealed that he refused to allow him 1,000 kg of luggage without additional charges.
Iffat Omar labelled his attitude as “sickeningly entitled”.
The second video featured Dr Zakir Naik reprimanding a girl who pressed him about a controversial matter.
This prompted Iffat to question the rationale behind inviting him as a state guest.
She tagged prominent political figures, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and parties like PML-N and PPP, saying:
“I really want to know who thought of inviting him as a State Guest, who?”
Dr Naik’s visit to Pakistan spans a month and began on September 30, 2024.
Upon his arrival at Islamabad airport, he received a warm welcome from various officials, including the Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme.
During his visit, Dr Naik was also the chief guest at an event organised by Pakistan Sweet Home, an institution dedicated to orphans.
I really want to know who thought of inviting him as a State Guest ,who??@CMShehbaz @pmln_org @MediaCellPPP https://t.co/KaZrSxO2oB
— Iffat Omar Official (@OmarIffat) October 7, 2024
After addressing the audience, he chose not to present awards to girls on stage, citing their status as non-mahram.
He explained that physical contact was inappropriate. This decision sparked a viral reaction on social media, leading to widespread debate.
In response to the backlash, Dr Naik addressed the issue during a public meeting at the Governor House in Sindh.
He expressed his surprise at the focus on a photo session rather than the welfare of the orphans he came to meet.
Dr Naik reiterated his stance on maintaining boundaries with non-mahram females, regardless of age.
He remarked:
“I was shocked to receive criticism for my actions. What has happened to this country?”
Dr Zakir Naik contrasted his experiences in Pakistan with his interactions in India, where he claimed people respect such boundaries more.
His remarks ignited a discussion about cultural and religious norms regarding gender interactions in Pakistan.
While some supported him for his adherence to his principles, others criticised him for being overly rigid and disconnected from modern societal expectations.
The scholar’s public lectures in major cities, including Karachi and Lahore, are set to take place from October 6 to 20, 2024.
These events will be broadcast live on Peace TV, allowing a wider audience to engage with Dr Zakir Naik’s insights on comparative religion.