In a letter of demand, Naik said the report, which he labelled as defamatory, had tarnished his image and reputation.

He said the report, uploaded on YouTube on Sept 13, had also given the impression that he had contracted HIV or engaged in immoral activities that had led to him being infected.

Nail also claimed the report, titled “Watch Now: Controversial Preacher Zakir Naik Hospitalised, Facing Serious Health Issues,” had led to him being ridiculed.

The letter of demand, issued by law firm Akberdin & Co, was directed at CNN News 18 INDIA and Manoj Gupta.

According to Naik, the report had inferred that he had admitted himself to a private hospital in the Klang Valley, which he said had tarnished his reputation as a preacher.

Apart from the damages, Naik also demanding an apology and for all defamatory remarks to be retracted and removed.

The letter of demand gave the portal 48 hours to issue an unreserved apology and seven days to pay the damages, failing which legal proceedings will be commenced seeking an injunction, damages, interest and costs.

This comes a month after Naik denied that he has been diagnosed with AIDS, contrary to claims making the rounds on social media.

He decried the news as “rubbish” and “fake news”.

He had also described the claims as “hate speech” spread by irresponsible people.