New Delhi, Jan 19: Dr Zakir Naik, a prominent Islamic orator and authority on comparative religion, is likely to be questioned by National Investigation Agency (NIA), which is scanning his firm's 78 bank accounts, and alleged real estate investments worth at least Rs 100 crore in and around Mumbai by him and his associates.
The probe agency, which had in November last year registered a case against Naik and others under anti-terror law after a section of media accused him of promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, and doing acts prejudicial to maintenance of harmony, has found role of 23 entities including individuals and corporates linked to the preacher, NIA sources said today.
The NIA has questioned around 20 associates of Naik, including his sister Nailah Naushad Noorani, in connection with its investigation, they said. "We have sought certain documents including income tax returns and others.
Besides this, 78 bank accounts in different banks of the country, are also being scanned. Once examination is done, we intend to summon Zakir Naik for questioning," a source said.
The sources said that the agency has written to the banks seeking details of these accounts including transactions. At least Rs 100 crore have been allegedly invested in real estate by Naik and his associates in and around Mumbai.
The NIA officials have found complicated movement of money in the financial transactions made by people involved in the case, they said, adding that the role of Mumbai-based Harmony Media Pvt Ltd--involved in production of religious and educative videos--is being looked into in this case.
Naik's Non-Government Organisation (NGO),Islamic Research Foundation (IRF), has been banned by the central government under Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
According to the Home Ministry, Naik, who heads the IRF, has allegedly made many provocative speeches and engaged in terror propaganda.
Maharashtra Police has also registered criminal cases against Naik for his alleged involvement in radicalisation of youths and luring them into terror activities. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has also registered a criminal case against Naik and IRF under money laundering laws.
Addressing Kannadiga delegates from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait and other countries through a video conference, Dr Narayan also assured that necessary steps will be taken by the Karnataka government to provide free quarantine facility for those who cannot afford private quarantine in hotels or guest houses. The video conference was organised by coastaldigest.com.
Comments
first, its not his personal property. second, there are many NGO's/institutions who have land cash and others assets worth far more than 100cr. one small example is the property given to Hema Malini in Mumbai, which may be worth more than 50cr gifted to her by BJP for a meager 75k. at least IRF would have purchased at fare value and would have all the required documents.
Dr. Naik has received many prestigious awards like King Faisal award from Saudi, also from UAE. These awards include big fortune of amount amounting in several Crores of Indian Rupees.
He has donated all amount to his organization. This amount belongs to him. He can keep it. He is from wealthy, well to do family.
He does not need illegal stolen money. He donates his personnel wealth to charity work.
Allegation should have some common sense. He is ready to face any trial if fair trial is guaranteed.
Modi should be quizzed for his involvement in Gujarath riot and killing....but still he became PM....common guys what the hell is going around....Zakir Naik is just a peace preacher....nothing to do with terrorism.....BJP and RSS does not like to see him preaching and sharing knowledge about Islam among all religions...Islam is the last and final religion that is what is reminding everyone.....
Why only Zair naik. There are many BJP and other political leaders invested Crores of Rupees in different ways. Why only Zakir naik questioned????
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