Controversy surrounds Zakir Naik, a Muslim cleric wanted by India, with recent social media posts alleging he is suffering from AIDS. Naik, currently residing in Malaysia, has responded to the rumors through his legal counsel, labeling the claims as untrue. These allegations have gained traction online, prompting his lawyer to issue a statement. The lawyer emphasized that the claims are aimed at discrediting Naik. According to a report in Sinar Daily, Naik has dismissed the allegations of having AIDS through his lawyer. The lawyer further stated that reports of Naik receiving treatment for AIDS at a private hospital in the Klang Valley are baseless. Naik’s legal team is accusing those behind the rumors of defamation. They are actively working to identify those responsible for spreading the information, and legal action is planned against anyone found to be disseminating the rumors in Malaysia. The rumors started on September 8 when a user named Fatima Khan made the initial post alleging that Zakir Naik was suffering from AIDS. This was followed by numerous other posts on social media. Naik has kept a low profile for the past ten months, with his last public statement being made in November 2024, in which he responded to questions regarding India and Hinduism. Naik left India in 2016 and has since become a Malaysian citizen. He faces terrorism and money laundering charges in India. In an interview in Pakistan, Naik admitted his fear of returning to India, which is why he lives in Malaysia.
