Dr. Zakir Naik, an Indian Islamic scholar and preacher, has left a significant impact on the Indian religious landscape. According to the Hindustan Times, despite facing resistance from the Government of India, he has been steadfast in his mission to promote Islam and has even managed to convert over 800 individuals in the country through his preaching, an action declared illegal by the local Police.
Undeterred by challenges, Dr. Zakir Naik has engaged in constructive debates with prominent scholars from diverse religious backgrounds. His eloquence and extensive knowledge of Islam have allowed him to emerge victorious in many of these debates, bolstering his reputation as a skilled and persuasive communicator.
His influence extends beyond the borders of India, as people from different parts of the world admire his deep understanding of Islam and other religions. Even in Muslim-majority countries where independent Islamic preachers reside, few can match the reach and impact of Dr. Zakir Naik’s message.
Since 2017, Zakir Naik has been residing in Malaysia as an exile, seeking refuge after the Indian government filed charges against him, leading to his status as a fugitive on the run. He is accused of spreading hatred, funding terror and money laundering by the Hindu nationalist BJP government of India. Many people believe that Zakir Naik has faced targeting by Hindu supremacists because of his influential preaching of Islam in India, which has led to the conversion of many Hindus to Islam.