PM warns against preachers of hate threatening society

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today warned that "preachers of hate and violence" are threatening the fabric of the society, in comments that assume significance amid the controverssy surrounding Islamic preacher Zakir Naik. He also appeared to be hitting out at Pakistan as he emphasised that those giving shelter to terrorists and using them as political instruments must be condemned. Addressing the students at the University of Nairobi here, Modi pitched for a world free from terror and hate, saying safety and security of people and societies is essential for realising the benefits of the economic progress. "Preachers of hate and violence are threatening the fabric of our society," he said without taking any names. Underlining the need to counter radicalization, he said "Youth can play an important role in building a counter narrative to extremist ideologies." His comments assume significance in view of the expanding footprint of ISIS terror group, which is particularly attracting the youth through a campaign of radicalisation. A recent case in point was the attack in Bangladesh some days back at a cafe by a group of six educated youth in which 22 people, mostly foreigners, were killed. Some of these six attackers were allegedly influenced by the controversial Indian Muslim preacher Zakir Naik, who gives sermons on a TV channel, which is under scrutiny of the Indian government now. Apprehensions of some Indian youth getting attracted towards ISIS is also gaining ground with 15 youngsters from Kerala going missing mysteriously. The Prime Minister, while speaking about developmental strides, said, "A steady march towards our economic goals is indeed a priority. But, we also cannot ignore the safety of our people."