Zakir Naik

Zakir Naik, born on October eighteenth, nineteen sixty-five, is a prominent Indian Islamic da'i and orator renowned for his focus on comparative religion. As the founder and president of the Islamic Research Foundation (IRF) and Peace TV, he has established himself as a significant figure in the Islamic community. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Naik delivers his speeches in English, often quoting from various religious scriptures, and is known for his distinctive choice of attire, opting for a suit and tie over traditional robes.

Naik's approach to Islamic preaching is unique; he does not align himself with any specific school of thought within Islam, although he is often associated with the Salafi movement. His ability to engage audiences with his articulate presentations has garnered him a substantial following, making him a well-known personality in the Islamic world.

In two thousand sixteen, while Naik was abroad, the Indian government, led by the BJP under Narendra Modi, accused him of propagating hate speech and money laundering. This led to the banning of the Islamic Research Foundation and the broadcasting of Peace TV in India. Naik, who has consistently denied these allegations, chose not to return to India and has since become a permanent resident of Malaysia. Currently, he is considered a wanted fugitive in India, with the National Investigation Agency attempting to issue an Interpol red notice for his arrest, which has been refused thrice due to insufficient evidence.

Despite the controversies surrounding him, Naik's Peace TV remains influential, although it has been banned in several countries, including India, Bangladesh, Canada, Sri Lanka, and the United Kingdom, under hate speech laws. His work continues to spark discussions and debates within and outside the Islamic community.