GOVT REVOKES NAIK’S PASSPORT ON NIA REQUEST

NEW DELHI: The passport of controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, wanted in connection with alleged terror funding cases, was on Tuesday revoked at the request of the National Investigation Agency (NIA), officials said.

The officials of the probe agency said the travel document was revoked by the Regional Passport Office of Mumbai after 51- y ear-old Naikfai led to respond to a showcause notice issued to him for personal appearance by July 13. The notice was served asking Naik why his passport should not be revoked in view of various investigations pending against him, they said.

He is being probed for terror and money laundering charges bythe NIA. He fled from India on July 1, 2016 after terrorists in neighbouring Bangladesh claimed that they were inspired by his speeches on waging jihad.