Nobel Laureate Yunus Courts Controversy with Zakir Naik Meeting
Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus has ignited a firestorm by welcoming controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik to his Dhaka residence. Naik, banned in multiple countries for alleged extremist ties, was previously linked to the 2016 Holey Artisan Bakery attack in Dhaka that killed 22 people, including 17 foreigners. The encounter has drawn sharp criticism from secular groups, political opponents, and counter-terrorism experts, who question Yunus’s alignment with a figure accused of radical rhetoric.
Who is Zakir Naik?
Zakir Naik, an Indian-born televangelist, rose to global prominence through his polarizing speeches on comparative religion, often targeting other faiths while advocating strict Islamic teachings. His Peace TV network—banned in India, Bangladesh, Canada, and the UK—has been accused of inciting hate speech and inspiring terrorist acts.
After the 2016 Dhaka attack, Bangladeshi authorities banned Naik’s sermons, citing evidence that one assailant was influenced by his ideology. India outlawed his Islamic Research Foundation (IRF) in 2017 under anti-terror laws, and Interpol issued a Red Corner Notice for his arrest. Naik, now a Malaysian resident, denies terrorism links but remains embroiled in legal battles.
Why Did Muhammad Yunus Host Him?
Yunus, founder of Grameen Bank and a global poverty alleviation advocate, has not publicly explained the meeting. Analysts speculate:
– Political Safeguarding: Yunus, facing government-led legal challenges, may seek alliances with influential religious figures.
– Interfaith Dialogue Attempt: Critics dismiss this, citing Naik’s divisive history.
The timing is sensitive—Bangladesh’s ruling Awami League has positioned itself as anti-extremist, and Yunus’s association with Naik risks political fallout.
Public Outrage and Political Fallout
The meeting has provoked fierce backlash:
– Victims’ Families: Relatives of Holey Artisan attack victims condemn Naik’s presence as an affront.
– Government Criticism: Awami League leaders accuse Yunus of undermining counter-terrorism efforts.
– Secular Activists: Warn that Naik’s legitimization could fuel Islamist extremism in Bangladesh.
Diplomatic Ramifications
Naik’s Dhaka visit may strain Bangladesh-India relations. India seeks his extradition, but Malaysia shields him via residency rights. If Bangladesh tolerates Naik, it risks alienating New Delhi, a key ally. Western supporters of Yunus’s humanitarian work may also reassess their stance given Naik’s notoriety.
Conclusion: A Strategic Blunder?
Yunus’s silence on his motives leaves room for debate—was this dialogue, political calculus, or a misstep? Regardless, the backlash underscores Bangladesh’s fragile balance between free speech, religious influence, and security in a post-terrorism era.
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