According to news reports, the NIA has sought prosecution sanction from the ministry against Islamic preacher Dr Zakir Naik , who has fled India. — Picture by Yusof Mat Isa

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 23 — PAS wants Malaysia to refuse India’s request demanding the return of its citizen and controversial Muslim preacher Dr Zakir Naik who is being investigated by its authorities for alleged terror activities.

The Islamist Opposition party’s information chief Nasrudin Hassan said Dr Zakir was a well-respected individual and that claims that the latter was radicalising or preaching terrorism was untrue.

“Malaysia does not need to abide to the request by the Indian government on Dr Zakir.

“PAS and Malaysians who stand by the truth will always defend Dr Zakir from being extradited to India,” he said in a statement today.

India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) has submitted a charge-sheet on the fugitive preacher to the Ministry of Home Affairs in New Delhi.

According to news reports, the NIA has sought prosecution sanction from the ministry against Dr Zakir, who has fled India.

The news reports added that India will be sending a formal extradition request to Malaysia and to Saudi Arabia where he reportedly has gained citizenship.

Putrajaya has admitted awarding permanent residency to Dr Zakir five years ago.

He was also awarded the prestigious Tokoh Maal Hijrah in 2013 in recognition of his contributions to Islam.