PETALING JAYA: Two PAS leaders have voiced strong support for Dr Zakir Naik who faces an imminent bid by New Delhi to seek the extradition of the fugitive Indian preacher for trial on terrorism-related charges.
Pasir Mas MP Nik Mohamad Abduh Nik Aziz urged Putrajaya to stand firm in defending Naik who has permanent residence status in Malaysia.
Nik Abduh said the Malaysian government must have cleared Naik of any links to terrorism before making him a permanent resident.
“Therefore, PAS urges the government to reject any application by India to extradite Naik who is respected for his expert knowledge in comparative religions by Islamic scholars and Muslims around the world,” he said.
Last Saturday, the Indian government was reported to have taken another step towards compelling Naik to return to his homeland to face charges related to money laundering for terrorist activities.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA), India’s central anti-terrorism body, has submitted a detailed investigation report about Naik’s alleged terror activities.
The Times of India reported that the agency had been given approval by the Indian home ministry to prosecute Naik.
Meanwhile, PAS information chief Nasrudin Hassan said Naik must not be extradited even if the Indian government requests for it.
“Naik is recognised and esteemed worldwide for his religious knowledge. He even received the Tokoh Maal Hijrah (from Malaysia) in 2013.
“His discourses on comparative religions have inspired many to embrace Islam. This is what others fear,” he said in a statement.
Nasrudin dismissed the allegation of promoting terrorism as the usual pretext used to curb Muslim preachers. -FMT
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