New Delhi: Controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, known for his radical views, has voiced strong opposition to the proposed Waqf Bill in India. In a recently released video, Naik urged Indian Muslims to unite against the bill, claiming that a collective opposition could force the government to reconsider its stance. Naik, a fugitive currently residing in Malaysia, has been accused of inciting communal tensions and promoting extremist ideologies.Call for Muslim unityIn his video message, Naik argued that the ruling BJP-led coalition government is weaker now compared to the past decade. He suggested that a strong, united protest from the Muslim community could push the government to withdraw the Waqf Bill. According to Naik, India is home to over 21 crore Muslims, and if just 2.5 percent of them—around 50 lakh people—stand up against the bill, it can be blocked.Naik also shared a link urging Muslims to vote against the proposed legislation. He claimed that Waqf properties are historically Muslim lands, and no non-Muslim should have the right to interfere. Waqf Board is the third-largest landholder in India, Naik stated, adding that the Constitution of India safeguards these properties. According to him, the bill is part of an anti-Muslim agenda aimed at weakening the Muslim community by seizing its properties.Political context and accusationsNaiks video comes at a time when the BJP government is facing increasing political opposition. He emphasized that this is an opportunity for the Muslim community to prevent the passing of the Waqf Bill, which he claims could lead to the loss of thousands of mosques, madrasas, and graveyards. Naik warned that if the bill is passed, future generations of Muslims will hold the current generation responsible for allowing their ancestral lands to be taken away.The preacher, often in the headlines for his controversial statements, continues to incite opposition from his self-imposed exile in Malaysia. Naik fled India in 2016, facing charges of money laundering, inciting communal violence, and participating in illegal activities. His speeches, frequently filled with derogatory remarks about Hindu gods and goddesses, have sparked large-scale protests in India, leading to government action against him.
