FUGITIVE Islamic preacher Zakir Naik cancelled an appearance at a gathering of Muslim scholars in Kelantan today, citing “unavoidable reasons”.

PAS, the organiser of Persidangan Antarabangsa Perpaduan Ummah in Kota Baru, said they were informed of the cancellation by letter. 

“He can’t attend the conference due to reasons that can’t be avoided. He apologises for not being able to fulfil the invitation,” deputy president Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man said in a statement. 

Tuan Ibrahim said another speaker would replace Zakir. 

On Wednesday, India revoked Zakir’s passport upon the recommendation of its National Investigation Agency (NIA).

The revocation effectively makes Zakir a stateless person, according to the Times of India.

NIA has booked Zakir under India’s Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act for terror links after his speeches allegedly incited youth to commit terror acts.

Zakir has reportedly travelled to Saudi Arabia and Malaysia after leaving India last year, but the revocation of his passport will now restrict his movements, said officials.

NIA last month applied for an Interpol Red Notice against Zakir. A Red Notice is a request for Interpol member police forces to arrest a wanted person with a view of extradition to the country that posted the notice. – July 22, 2017.