Central government to take ‘appropriate action’ against Zakir Naik

The Central government on Thursday said “appropriate action” would be taken against controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik for speeches that may have influenced the Dhaka attackers. It said the speeches were “highly objectionable”.

“The home ministry will study his speeches. It will take appropriate action after studying them. His speeches, as being reported in the media, are highly objectionable,” information and broadcasting minister M. Venkaiah Naidu said. Mr Naidu’s remarks come a day after MoS for home affairs Kiren Rijiju hinted at action against the preacher after looking into whether Mr Naik through his speeches glorifies terrorist acts by Muslims. Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis directed the Mumbai police commissioner to investigate and submit a report on Mr Naik. A home department official confirmed that the CM has told the city commissioner to investigate the preacher.