In yet another controversial and inflammatory statement, Zakir Naik, the self-exiled Islamic preacher, has once again found himself at the center of a storm. This time, Naik has shocked many with his outrageous claim that “an unmarried woman is public property” during one of his recent lectures. While the world is striving for gender equality and the protection of women’s rights, such statements not only undermine progress but also pose serious dangers to society.
Known for his extreme views and polarizing speeches, Zakir Naik has built a reputation as a radical preacher. Over the years, his public addresses have often incited controversy, but this latest remark has crossed all boundaries of decency and respect for women. His comment has been met with widespread condemnation, but questions remain: How can someone justify such an assertion in today’s world? And what do such statements mean for women’s rights, particularly in conservative communities?
Who is Zakir Naik? A Background of Controversy
For those unfamiliar, Zakir Naik is an Islamic televangelist and the founder of the Islamic Research Foundation (IRF). While he once enjoyed significant support and a massive following for his public speeches and TV programs on Islam, his notoriety has grown due to his extremist views and inflammatory statements. Naik has been accused of spreading hate speech and has been banned from several countries, including India, the UK, and Canada.
Since leaving India amid charges of money laundering and inciting violence, Naik has been living in Malaysia. His preachings have always been controversial, but this latest statement has drawn even more attention to the dangerous ideas he propagates.
The Disturbing Statement: ‘Unmarried Woman is Public Property’
Naik’s recent statement was made during a lecture on marriage and the role of women in Islam. According to him, an unmarried woman should be seen as “public property” and has fewer rights than a married woman, who is protected by her husband. The audacity of this statement has left many speechless, as it implies that women who are not married are somehow unworthy of dignity and respect.
It also suggests that they can be objectified and used by anyone in society—a view that is not only degrading but also dangerous. Naik has tried to justify his views using selective religious interpretations, but such extreme beliefs run contrary to the global movement towards women’s rights and equality.
A Backlash Against Misogyny: Widespread Condemnation
As expected, Naik’s comment has sparked widespread outrage on social media and among activists. Women’s rights groups, human rights organizations, and religious scholars across the world have condemned his statement as deeply misogynistic and dangerous.
Prominent feminist voices have pointed out that such rhetoric fuels violence against women, reinforces patriarchal norms, and sends a harmful message to impressionable minds. Even moderate Islamic scholars have distanced themselves from Naik’s comments, arguing that such interpretations of religion are misleading and damaging.
What Does This Mean for Women’s Rights in Conservative Communities?
Zakir Naik’s statement comes at a time when women across the world are fighting for equal rights, representation, and safety. In many conservative communities, women are already battling systemic discrimination and oppression. Comments like these can further entrench dangerous beliefs and give fuel to those who want to limit women’s autonomy.
In societies where gender inequality is rampant, such views can have devastating effects. They can embolden perpetrators of violence, reinforce regressive customs, and even justify domestic abuse or sexual harassment under the guise of religious doctrine.
Freedom of Speech or Hate Speech?
While Zakir Naik’s supporters may argue that he is exercising his freedom of speech, it is crucial to recognize the difference between legitimate discourse and hate speech. Naik’s latest statement falls squarely into the latter category. By objectifying women and reducing their worth based on marital status, he is spreading harmful and regressive ideas that have no place in modern society.
Many countries have already banned Naik from delivering public speeches due to his extremist rhetoric. His continued access to platforms that allow him to spread such toxic views is a point of concern for many.
Why Should Such Statements Be Taken Seriously?
It is easy to dismiss Naik’s comments as the ramblings of an extremist preacher, but that would be a mistake. In a world where misogyny and gender violence are still rampant, influential figures like Naik can have a significant impact. His followers, many of whom look up to him as a religious authority, may internalize such dangerous ideas, leading to real-world harm.
In countries where women already face limited rights, statements like Naik’s can be weaponized to control and oppress women further. The danger lies not just in the statement itself but in the actions it could inspire.
A Call for Accountability: Should Zakir Naik Be Censored?
Given the scale of the backlash, there have been renewed calls for countries like Malaysia to take action against Zakir Naik. Activists and human rights organizations are urging the authorities to limit his public platform and hold him accountable for spreading hate speech.
Naik’s influence extends far beyond Malaysia, and his online reach means that his toxic ideas are being consumed by people across the globe. There is a growing demand for social media platforms to take a stand and de-platform individuals like Naik, who use their influence to spread dangerous ideologies.
Conclusion: Dangerous Rhetoric with Real-World Consequences
Zakir Naik’s statement that “an unmarried woman is public property” is not just shocking but deeply dangerous. It is a stark reminder of how misogynistic views continue to be propagated in certain circles, often under the guise of religious teachings.
While Naik may see this as an exercise of his religious interpretation, the reality is that such statements contribute to the dehumanization of women and can lead to real-world violence and oppression. In a world where gender equality remains a crucial issue, voices like Naik’s must be challenged and held accountable.