Date:02/08/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/08/02/stories/2008080255051001.htm

Opinion - Letters to the Editor

Ahmedabad blasts

This refers to the article “Ahmedabad blasts: the usual suspects” (Aug. 1). Indian Muslims are peace-loving. It would be better for national integration if stories and articles of sacrifices made by Muslims for their country and their achievements are published, instead of repeating the views of the lunatic fringe gone astray.

Indian Muslims proudly sing sare jahaan say achcha Hindustan hamaara … and are second to none in patriotism. Let the author give some useful suggestions to enable the police and intelligence agencies to nab the culprits who plant bombs and kill innocent people. They belong to no religion.

V.M. Khaleelur Rahman,

Ambur

* * *

By reproducing the so-called manifesto of an unknown organisation, which has the most blasphemous content against a religion, the article has given legitimacy to it. There are umpteen organisations with radical ideologies which civil society cannot accept. One hopes such content will not be published in future.

Rettavayal S. Krishnaswamy,

Chennai

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The Indian Mujahideen are a frustrated lot. The worst part of their manifesto is their belief that their religion gives them the permission to wage jihad against Hindus. This matter is of utmost concern. Our leaders, instead of playing the blame game, should stand united to break this infrastructure of hatred and protect our country from being divided on communal lines.

P. Malhotra,

New Delhi

* * *

The reproduction of such material will only lead to the widening of the communal divide, which will make the task of the anti-national elements easier.

Rashid G. Khan,

Aligarh

* * *

The article wrongly describes Zakir Naik as a neoconservative television evangelist. Dr. Naik is the founder-president of the Islamic Research Foundation, Mumbai, which is associated with the cause of Islamic reforms. He is a renowned scholar of Islam and contemporary religions with a captivating style of oratory. His seminars are attended by people of diverse backgrounds. He is often asked questions on the relationship between Islam and terror, which he tackles with eruditeness.

The media must observe caution, and refrain from dragging the names of religious scholars who work tirelessly to eliminate antipathy among people.

Yasir Malik,

New Delhi

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A vast majority of Muslims are peaceful and law-abiding. I have not personally come across one who is not. But persistent terror attempts in Gujarat certainly lead to the sad conclusion that there are gullible youth disillusioned by Islamophobia and anti-Muslim pogroms, enticed by the thought of taking the law into their hands. Witnessing mass murders of Muslims is certainly a traumatic event that could lead to an unbalanced psyche and thirst for revenge. The presence of opportunist elements that exploit the vulnerable is definitely a dangerous trend. Let us not forget that these tendencies are not confined to any particular religion or ideology.

What is the solution? Prompt apprehension and punishment of miscreants by the government could have averted many disasters. Sadly, the wheels of justice turn in an excruciatingly slow manner. The sane majority can make a difference by reassuring those affected and providing physical, financial and, most important of all, psychological help to them. Religious leaders should invite them to walk the tougher path of forgiveness and forbearance.

Thehseen Zakir,

Kochi

* * *

It is worrisome that a bomb blast in any corner of the world spells trouble for Muslims. Whether or not a Muslim is attached to an organisation, he or she feels suspected, secretly followed, and directly or indirectly targeted. In this sense, every blast is an attack on Islam and Muslims.

Ustad Humaid,

New Delhi

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I am a student of class X. To those who encourage and perpetrate terrorism, I appeal that they stop immediately. Their acts earn nothing for Muslims except disrespect. It would be wonderful if there was no bloodshed. Only love and respect for others can bring this world together. They can undo all the injustices and atrocities that they believe have been done to Muslims.

Ajmeera A. Azeez,

Alwaye