Even as it confirmed Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar's upcoming visit to Islamabad, the Indian government strongly criticized Pakistan for hosting fugitive Zakir Naik. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed disappointment but noted that the move was unsurprising, given the circumstances. "It is disappointing and condemnable, but, as I said, not surprising," the MEA spokesperson remarked.

Naik, an Islamic preacher, is wanted by Indian authorities on charges of money laundering and promoting extremism through hate speeches. He fled India in 2016 and has since been granted permanent residency in Malaysia, under the government led by former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad.

India's request for Naik’s extradition remains pending with the Malaysian government. "We are actively pursuing the extradition with Malaysia," the official stated, adding that India raised the issue during the recent visit of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.