This Article is From Jul 12, 2016

Amid Inquiries Against Zakir Naik, PM Modi Speaks Of 'Preachers Of Hate'

Mr Naik will address media through skype on the allegations of inspiring terrorists through his speeches.

Mumbai: Mumbai televangelist Dr Zakir Naik abandoned plans for a press conference on Skype from Saudi Arabia today, choosing instead to issue a written statement that stressed "I do not support terrorism or violence in any form whatsoever. I have never supported any terrorist organisations."

India is investigating Bangladesh's claim that Dr Naik, 50, inspired a couple of the seven young men who attacked a cafe in its capital, Dhaka, earlier this month, killing 20 hostages.

"So far not a single official Indian government agency has contacted me for any clarification," the preacher's statement declared.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi who was on a tour of Africa, did not mention Dr Naik in his speech in Kenya but warned that "Preachers of hate and violence are threatening our society."

This weekend, Bangladesh has pulled Dr Naik's Peace TV off air. The channel, which broadcasts out of Dubai, has been banned in India for years but was made available illicitly through cable operators, who have now been warned with stiff punishment.

All state governments have been asked to take action against unauthorised TV channels, said Information and Broadcasting Minister Venakaiah Naidu. He said viewers who see unlicensed channels on cable networks should alert the government.

The controversial preacher's sermons, writings and funds are being examined by both the Centre and the Maharashtra government.  

Dr Naik, whose speeches are also streamed online, has been on a religious tour of Saudi Arabia since the Dhaka attack. Reports of a likely return to Mumbai today proved to be incorrect, with his Islamic Research Foundation or IRF stating he will travel to Africa over the next few days.

Dr Naik, accused by countries including the UK and Canada of urging or justifying acts of terror, claimed that any speeches that appear to do so have been doctored to misrepresent his remarks.
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