Naik's arrival in Pakistan, which began at the end of September 2024, has attracted considerable attention due to his long-standing legal issues in India. He is wanted by Indian authorities on charges that include promoting hate speech and inciting communal violence. In 2016, the Indian National Investigation Agency (NIA) charged him under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act following the 2016 Dhaka terrorist attack, where it was alleged that one of the attackers was influenced by Naik's speeches. Additionally, India has been pressing for his extradition from Malaysia, where he has been living in exile. However, Malaysia has not complied with these requests to date.
Despite his controversial background, Naik has maintained a strong public presence, both online and through public speaking engagements. During his visit to Pakistan, he is scheduled to deliver speeches in key cities, including Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore, as well as lead prayer gatherings. His speeches, typically focused on Islamic teachings, have sparked debates over religious extremism, given his previous comments that have been linked to incitement.
The withholding of Naik's X account in India underscores the broader tensions surrounding his public messaging. Indian authorities have long been wary of the influence Naik holds over his followers, particularly among the youth, with his digital content seen as potentially inflammatory. Social media platforms have occasionally taken action against his accounts due to his controversial statements, and the latest restriction of his X account appears to be part of an ongoing effort by Indian authorities to limit his influence.
In Pakistan, Naik has been greeted by prominent figures, including Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar and key religious officials. His visit is seen as an opportunity for him to reconnect with supporters and continue his outreach in a country that has provided a warm reception, in contrast to his status in India.
Naik’s presence in Pakistan comes at a politically charged moment, as regional tensions and internal political dynamics are playing out. While Naik has generally avoided overt political commentary in Pakistan, his close interactions with high-ranking officials have not gone unnoticed. This, coupled with the Indian government's actions to limit his digital footprint domestically, highlights the sensitive geopolitical and religious dimensions of his visit.