02-06-2006, 12:22 PM
<!--QuoteBegin-->QUOTE<!--QuoteEBegin-->Having said that, it merits reiteration that much of the outpouring of anger and disquiet is entirely justified. The West must acknowledge and accept that neither the freedom of the Press nor the right to offend provides for disregarding religious sensitivities. This is not the first time that non-Christians have been subjected to Western indifference and, what some would describe as, intentional ridicule. In the past, Hindu gods and goddesses have been used as decorative motifs on footwear and under garments. Anti-Semitism has manifested itself in various forms across Europe and America, violating all notions of human dignity.<!--QuoteEnd--><!--QuoteEEnd-->
Yes it is justified, everyone has a right to protest but the Muslim reaction is not entirely justified (burning embassies?) and neither is the West under any obligation to acknowledge anything, the foundations of its instituitions have been built on Free speech and freedom of press etc and if people don't like that they can always go back and how far will this go?, for many Muslims the mere existence of Hindus is a cause for offense so should Hindus all convert or commit suicide? Muslims also find it offensive that Hindu processions with music are taken through streets so should we stop them also?, tomorrow they might say that all the VOI books are offensive so should we oblige and ban them to protect the sensiblities of this medieval community?
Yes it is justified, everyone has a right to protest but the Muslim reaction is not entirely justified (burning embassies?) and neither is the West under any obligation to acknowledge anything, the foundations of its instituitions have been built on Free speech and freedom of press etc and if people don't like that they can always go back and how far will this go?, for many Muslims the mere existence of Hindus is a cause for offense so should Hindus all convert or commit suicide? Muslims also find it offensive that Hindu processions with music are taken through streets so should we stop them also?, tomorrow they might say that all the VOI books are offensive so should we oblige and ban them to protect the sensiblities of this medieval community?