THE ALL India Milli Council has advised the Muslims to exercise restraint over the reported statement of Pope Benedict XVI regarding Islam.
The Milli Council has expressed its surprise over the manner in which provocative statements are made with regularity in Europe and the reactions are seen in Asia where protests are held.
Council secretary Haji Dr Musharraf Ali said gathering a few people and staging a protest has become a norm these days. He said Indian Muslims should understand the design behind this entire exercise and they should not become a tool in somebody’s hand.
Former Chairman of State Minorities’ Commission Ibrahim Qureshi said as per United Nation’s declaration dated December 18, 1992 the religious feelings of any group or religion can’t be hurt. Pope being head of state can’t hurt any community or group, he said.
A protest was held at Budhwara on Saturday. Arif Masood Fans’ Club burnt the effigy of Pope Benedict to protest the alleged comments against Islam. Arif Masood said that Islam gives the message of peace and brotherhood.
He said the statement has been given deliberately to provoke Muslims. Zafar Alam Khan alleged that the Pope has given the statement at the insistence of US President George Bush to create a further rift between Muslims and Christians besides creating an ill will towards Muslims.
{{/usCountry}}He said the statement has been given deliberately to provoke Muslims. Zafar Alam Khan alleged that the Pope has given the statement at the insistence of US President George Bush to create a further rift between Muslims and Christians besides creating an ill will towards Muslims.
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