Why has Dr Zakir Naik issued defamation notices to four Malaysians?

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Dr Zakir Naik Has Issued Defamation Notices to Four Malaysians Over Alleged Twisting of His Remarks

Dr Zakir Naik has issued defamation notices to four individuals, including Penang deputy chief minister II P. Ramasamy, Bagan Dalam assemblyman Satees Muniandy, former ambassador Datuk Dennis Ignatius, and Klang MP Charles Santiago. These notices demand apologies and a settlement within 48 hours, failing which legal action for defamation will be pursued. The legal action stems from Dr Zakir's assertion that these individuals have misrepresented his statements made on August 8, accusing them of taking his remarks out of context.
Allegations of Misrepresentation and Defamation

The defamation notices, served by legal firm Akberdin & Co, are a response to Dr Zakir's police report filed against Human Resources Minister M. Kulasegaran and the four individuals. Dr Zakir contends that the articles and press releases published by or concerning these four individuals have twisted and manipulated his comments. Specifically, he claims that his remarks, which he asserts were praises for Malaysia's treatment and upholding of the rights of "Hindu minorities," have been wrongly quoted and presented in a defamatory manner.
Specific Examples of Alleged Defamatory Statements

The legal notices cite various publications as containing defamatory content. For instance, Datuk Dennis Ignatius is accused of making defamatory remarks in articles such as "Why empower a demagogue like Zakir Naik?" and "Zakir Naik: Hypocrisy & double standards." P. Ramasamy is referenced for an article titled "Naik should not question loyalty of Hindus in Malaysia," while Satees Muniandy is cited for "Lawmaker fumes after Zakir suggests Hindus here support Modi over Dr M." Klang MP Charles Santiago faces claims related to a press release and subsequent publication titled "Wednesday Cabinet Meeting Must Discuss Zakir Naik’s Meddling Into Politics."
Context of Nationwide Police Reports and Extradition Request

These defamation notices coincide with significant public attention, as police have confirmed receiving 115 reports nationwide concerning Dr Zakir's statements. Dr Zakir is a fugitive in India, facing money-laundering charges, and India has previously sought his extradition from Malaysia. His legal actions are occurring amidst ongoing criticism regarding his alleged remarks about Malaysia's minority communities, further intensifying the public discourse surrounding his presence and statements in the country.

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Why has Dr Zakir Naik issued defamation notices to four Malaysians?

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