When Digvijay Singh called Zakir Naik a `peace messenger` - Watch viral video

Controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, the founder of Mumbai-based Islamic Research Foundation, is banned in the United Kingdom and Canada.

New Delhi: In an embarrassment for Congress, a video has surfaced showing party leader Digvijay Singh hailing controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik as the one who spreads peace in the world.

Digvijay Singh had shared a stage with Naik, who was followed by militants who recently killed 20 persons in Dhaka, in 2012.

The video, which was broadcast on Peace TV, shows the Congress leader heaping praise on Naik.

Watch the video here:

Singh reacted to the controversy, saying that he had spoken about communal harmony during his speech.

My speech at conference organised by Zakir Naik is being shown. I spoke against Religious Fundamentalism and appealed for Communal Harmony.

— digvijaya singh (@digvijaya_28) July 7, 2016

If GOI or the Govt of Bangladesh has any evidence against Zakir Naik's involvement with ISIS they should take action against him.

— digvijaya singh (@digvijaya_28) July 7, 2016

The conference was for Communal Harmony and against Terrorism. Also to explain that Islam is against Innocents being killed.

— digvijaya singh (@digvijaya_28) July 7, 2016

The BJP has slammed Digvijay Singh for sharing a dais with Naik and accused Congress of being sympathetic to terrorists.

Naik, the founder of Mumbai-based Islamic Research Foundation, is banned in the United Kingdom and Canada for his hate speeches aimed against other religions.