"Kiya mard mar gaye hain?" Dr Zakir Naik 'not happy' with Maryam Nawaz's CMship

Renowned Islamic scholar Dr Zakir Naik has expressed his disapproval of Maryam Nawaz's appointment as Chief Minister Punjab.

The cleric shared his views during his recent appearance on a show of a private news channel.

During the interview, anchorperson Fareeha Idrees asked Mr Naik about Islamic laws regarding women's governance.

After asking the question, she mentioned that "our Chief Minister is also a woman", pointing at CM Punjab Maryam Nawaz.

In response, the preacher questioned the legitimacy of a woman holding public office.

"I don't have any grudges with that woman but why a woman? Are men dead in that city or country," Dr Naik responded without naming CM Maryam.

مریم نواز کا وزیراعلی بننا حرام ہے pic.twitter.com/h6vO8eyjyi

— Waqar khan (@Waqarkhan123) October 10, 2024

The 58-year-old scholar cited the Holy Prophet's (PBUH) Hadith to justify his stance, saying that a high-ranking position requires interactions with men, including shaking hands, which is not permissible in Islam.

Dr Zakir also recalled his visit to Gambia, where he refused to shake hands with the Ambassador of the US.

"I said to her, sorry our religion doesn't permit us to shake hands [with women]" he said adding that his act also shocked the Gambian President but he "stands by his principles".

The globally celebrated personality further argued that women compromise their status given by Islam by becoming rulers, referencing the Holy Prophet's (PBUH) Hadith that gives 75% of a child's companionship and love to their mother and 25% to their father. 

"This means mother gets gold medal, silver medal [and] bronze medal, while the father gets the consolation prize," Naik added.

He also claimed that the rulership also requires women to attend meetings with men in a "closed room".

Mr Naik, during the interview, revealed that his sister "owns and runs a business but within the limits of Shariah".

However, Dr Zakir's comments have sparked controversy, with many criticising his views on women's roles in governance.

The orator has been under public scrutiny since he arrived in Pakistan as a state guest for his controversial remarks against women and his aggressive behaviour with the audience during his sessions in Karachi.