Controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, wanted by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) on terror charges, has applied for Malaysian citizenship, according to agency sources.
Naik has been changing his base quite frequently after the NIA moved the Interpol for issuance of a Red Corner Notice (RCN), international arrest warrant, against him, they said.
The preacher, who is believed to be having Permanent Residence status in Malaysia, has now sought its citizenship but no decision has been taken so far on his application, the sources said.
The Indian Government is planning to use its diplomatic channels to frustrate all attempts by the controversial preacher to get citizenship in any country, they said.
The Malaysian authorities were aware about terror cases pending against the controversial Islamic preacher, they said.
Naik is being probed for terror and money laundering charges. He had fled from India immediately after an investigation against him was initiated.
His present place of stay is unknown and it is believed that he has been shuttling between the UAE, Saudi Arabia, African and Southeast Asian countries, the sources said.
The controversial preacher is accused of spreading hatred by his provocative speeches, funding terrorists and laundering several crores of rupees over the years.
