The Indian government has not filed an extradition request for controversial Muslim preacher Zakir Naik, according to a letter from Bukit Aman.

Zakir's lawyer Mohd Khairul Azam Abdul Aziz posted the letter, dated July 13 from the Legal Affairs Department of the federal police, on his Facebook page.

“For your information, this department has checked and found that no such request has been made by the Indian government towards your client to date.

“We urge you to check with the Attorney-General's Chambers on this matter as well,” stated the letter signed by ACP Mohamad Fahmi Visuvanatah Abdullah.

This contradicted the Indian government's claim that an extradition request was filed for the Indian-born preacher, who has Malaysian permanent resident status.

On July 13, Malaysiakini contacted the Indian Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Shri Raveesh Kumar, who confirmed that an official request was sent to Putrajaya in January this year.

Zakir is facing court charges in India for alleged money laundering, supporting terrorist activities and inciting religious tension.

The preacher has denied the charges.

Previously, Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad said Zakir would not be deported and the government would not bow to pressure.

Among those who demanded that Zakir be sent back to India to face trial was Penang Deputy Chief Minister II and DAP leader P Ramasamy.

Zakir has been accused of making hate speeches and belittling other religions when comparing them to Islam.