Protests against the controversial American anti-Islam film, Innocence of Muslims , across the world continue unabated. Attacks on U.S. consulates and embassies, burning of the American flag and slogan shouting have demonstrated the extent of anger at the depiction of Prophet Muhammad in a bad light.
Right-wing Christians in America would do well to appreciate that Prophet Muhammad revered the fresco of Mother Mary and infant Jesus, and retained it in the ancient granite shrine of Mecca while ordering the removal of all other frescoes. An open, sincere apology from the church for hurting the religious sentiments of Muslims will go a long way in dousing the fire.
G. David Milton,
Maruthancode
The explanation given by Muslim groups, including the TMMK, that they had informed the police about their plans to hold demonstrations against the film outside the U.S. Consulate in Chennai — which was stoned and damaged — and that the police were not adequately prepared lack conviction. Why does the community allow itself to be instigated thus? Can’t protests be more civilised and democratic?
That said, the law-enforcers need to keep a watch on all kinds of religious congregations, especially when such waiting-to-be-provoked situations are likely to develop.
Kasim Sait,
Chennai
