Pakistani model and actress Iffat Omar has publicly condemned the decision to invite renowned Islamic scholar Dr Zakir Naik as a state guest during his month-long visit to Pakistan.
Taking to the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Omar expressed her frustration, reposting videos that highlight what she called Dr Naik’s “sickeningly entitled” behavior and controversial views.
In one of the videos shared by Omar, the 58-year-old scholar is seen complaining about Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) CEO’s refusal to waive charges for his 1,000kg luggage.
Omar’s criticism extended further when she shared a second video, where Dr. Naik allegedly reprimands a young girl for linking Muslims with pedophilia.
The actress, known for her role in Mohabbat Aag Si, questioned the rationale behind inviting the cleric as a state guest, tagging Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), and the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) in her post. “I really want to know who thought of inviting him as a state guest, who?” Iffat Omar asked.
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Dr Zakir Naik’s month-long visit to Pakistan
Dr Zakir Naik, celebrated globally for his expertise in comparative religion, arrived in Pakistan on September 30.
Upon his arrival at Islamabad airport, he was welcomed by several high-ranking officials, including the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme (PMYP) Chairman Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan and dignitaries from the Ministry of Religious Affairs.
During his stay, Dr Naik is scheduled to deliver a series of public lectures in major cities. He began his engagements in Karachi, holding private meetings from October 7 to 10.
He will proceed to Lahore, where he is set to give lectures on October 12 and 13, followed by a final series in Islamabad on October 19 and 20. His talks will be broadcast live on Peace TV, offering a global audience the opportunity to hear his perspectives on Islam and comparative religion.
