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| Zakir Naik was quick to notice the difference between the two rounds and asked why MeghaPrasad was interrupting him so frequently (video below) |
Islamic preacher Zakir Naik has alleged that Times Now's Megha Prasad interviewed him twice, the second time more aggressively, interrupting him and trying to put words in his mouth.
He also claims that in the first round, the interview was amicable and he had a chance to answer all questions. He also alleges Megha Prasad's superiors may not have been happy with it, prompting her to call him again, for a second round.
Zakir Naik, who is in Mecca, recorded both versions of the interview on his mobile and released both purported versions.
In the first interview that lasts for 15 minutes, Megha Prasad is congenial, asks sharp questions and allows him to answer in the full.
Her focus is on the accusation that Zakir Naik has been inciting Muslims into terror. She cites a few instances, including the recent attack in Dhaka, where terrorists were found to be following him.
In his response, Zakir Naik says his Peace channel has 200 million followers and Facebook page, 14 million. He says he only inspires people to follow true tenets of Islam. However, he adds that a small percentage of his followers may fall prey to other Islamic preachers, who spread terror.
He also goes on to condemn all terror attacks from 9/11 to Dhaka attacks and declares ISIS as anti-Islam.
Zakir Naik, who had been earlier ambivalent on 9/11, seems to have changed his position to come out against terror unequivocally.
The interview ends on a cordial note.
According to the audio recording released by Zakir Naik, Megha Prasad allegedly called him again and requested him to answer the questions saying there was a major technical problem.
Her focus was the same, the charge that Zakir Naik incited Muslim youth into terror.
But this time, she allegedly interrupted frequently and was heard saying - answer my question, listen to me, we are talking about you, not others.
Zakir Naik was quick to notice the difference between the two rounds and asked why she was interrupting him so frequently.
The questions got increasingly offensive and personal and Megha Prasad allegedly asked how Zakir Naik could sleep properly at night after having inspired people who are killing innocents.
The interview broke down after Megha Prasad allegedly told Zakir Naik, "You don't mind creating one (terrorist)".
Zakir Naik said Megha Prasad was putting words in his mouth and should be ashamed of herself. It was his turn to ask, how she could sleep at night (for putting words in his mouth.) "What kind of journalism is this, if you do not apologise, I will not continue."
Megha Prasad refused and the interview ended on a bitter note.