Mumbai Police has indicted controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik in its report to the state government. Mumbai Police found him to be allegedly involved in unlawful activities with possible terror links, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said Tuesday.
Maharashtra CM told local media that a watertight case is being prepared against the Islamic televangelist, whose organisation Islamic Research Foundation (IRF) is also under the scanner, and efforts would be made to extradite him.
The Mumbai Police, tasked with probing his alleged provocative controversial speeches, Tuesday submitted its report to the State Government.
Police were asked to probe Naik’s speeches available online to see if any of them could have encouraged youths to join terrorist groups amid reports that his preachings inspired some of those involved in the Dhaka terror strike.
“The report has made observations about him (Dr. Zakir Naik) making (critical) comments on other religion and belittling them – an action that would cause disharmony in society. The report also has details of countries that have banned him or his organisations.
Zakir Naik is accused of instigating terrorism through his preaching.
“The Government is examining the report which have several aspects that are in the domain of the Centre,” Fadnavis was quoted as saying by the local media.
The report will be sent to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs and further action will be taken as per its guidance, said Fadnavis, who also holds the Home portfolio.
“There are many revelations in the report about illegal and unlawful activities (allegedly involving Naik and IRF) and activities which are not in interest of the nation.
“The report has shed light on aspects like his relation with Firoz Deshmukh (a terror accused). It also talks about its links with Jamaat-ud-Dawa (a front of Pak-based terror outfit LeT) and Indian Mujahedeen and other activities that are illegal,” he said.
Fadnavis said the Police Department has given various proofs against the 50-year-old Mumbai-based physician-turned- preacher, who is currently abroad.
Fadnavis said: “There is zero tolerance policy toward terror across the world. And besides, we have extradition treaties with almost every country. If needed, the Centre would take help from foreign Governments to extradite him.”
