Dr. Zakir Naik has recently expressed his displeasure with Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) for charging him for excess baggage during his visit to Pakistan. Naik, known for his provocative speeches, has compared his treatment in Pakistan to his experience in India. Conversely, he claims that people often give him preferential treatment, including waiving baggage fees.
Islamic preacher Dr. Zakir Naik recently expressed frustration with Pakistan International Airlines (PIA). His views arose after the airline denied him free excess baggage on his arrival for a month-long lecture tour in Pakistan. Dr. Naik, who had been invited as a state guest, was disappointed when PIA offered him only a 50% discount for 500-600 kg of additional luggage, despite his high-profile status.
Speaking publicly in Karachi, Naik explained how he had contacted PIA’s CEO and station manager before the flight. He recounted how the station manager offered a 50% discount on the excess luggage charges, which amounted to nearly 1,000 kg. Naik rejected the offer, comparing it to his experiences in India. Moreover, he claimed that even non-Muslim officials had waived similar fees for him in the past. “In India, they let me off without any charges, but here, despite being a state guest, I’m only offered a discount,” he said.
Naik’s Controversial Statement
During one of his speeches, Naik earlier also claimed that those residing in Pakistan have a better chance of going to ‘Jannat’ (paradise), than those living in the United States. Even those living in Pakistan have condemned this controversial statement.
Social media users Criticised Dr Zakir Naik over his complaint to PIA. One user wrote, “Enough of hospitality; serve Dr Sahab some food and say goodbye to him.” Another user wrote, “Clerics has lost his mind.”
Naik’s trip to Pakistan, which began on September 30, marks his first visit to the country in 30 years. His lecture tour will take him to cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. Originally from India, Naik now resides in Malaysia due to legal issues in India, which has sought his extradition on various charges.
The incident has not only brought attention to Naik’s treatment but also stirred debate about the privileges given to state guests and how national carriers handle such requests. For now, Dr. Zakir Naik’s remarks continue to make waves both in Pakistan and across the border in India.
