Islamic preacher Dr. Zakir Naik has issued an apology for remarks he made regarding Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) during his current visit to the country. The apology came after Naik faced criticism on social media for expressing dissatisfaction over the airline’s handling of his luggage, which included his complaint about being charged for excess baggage despite his status as a state guest.
Naik reflected on his conversation with Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori, who encouraged him to move past the incident. In his apology, Naik emphasized that his intention was never to create discord between Pakistan and India, drawing attention to the historical divisions created during British colonial rule. He reaffirmed his commitment to peace and apologized for any discomfort caused by his comments, adding that his ultimate goal is to achieve spiritual fulfillment rather than worldly gains.
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Naik’s comments regarding PIA, where he contrasted the airline’s service with what he claimed he would have received in India, had sparked a backlash from social media users accusing him of having a sense of entitlement. Despite the controversy, Naik remains focused on his month-long tour of Pakistan, where he plans to deliver lectures in cities such as Karachi, Islamabad, and Lahore. This tour is his first visit to Pakistan in 30 years, with his last trip taking place in 1992, when he met scholar Dr. Israr Ahmed in Lahore.
