London : Thousands of British Muslims gathered Sunday outside the gates of Downing Street (the headquarters of the British Government and the official residence) to protest against cartoons showing Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in Charlie Hebdo, the French satirical magazine, news agencies reported.
The protest comes weeks after two terrorists attacked the offices of Hebdo magazine which had published images of the Prophet, killing 12 staff and wounding 11 others.
British Muslims protest peacefully against Prophet Muhammad cartoons in London (Courtesy: IINA)
The Muslim Action Forum (MAF), which organized the rally, said recent republishing of cartoons, caricatures and depictions of the Prophet by Charlie Hebdo and other publishers is a “stark reminder” that freedom of speech is “regularly utilized to insult personalities that others consider sacred.”
The group added “Such actions are deliberating insulting and provoking to Muslims worldwide as British citizens, we believe that these publications will continue to ‘sow the seeds of hatred’ and damage community relations”.
MAF also expressed “deep regret” at the Paris terror attacks, which included a deadly massacre at Charlie Hebdo, saying they were a “violation of Islamic law.”
Shaykh Tauqir Ishaq, a senior spokesman for the MAF organizing the protest, said: “Perpetual mistakes by extremists, either by cold-blooded killers or uncivilized expressionists cannot be the way forward for a civilized society.
“The peace-loving majority of people must become vociferous in promoting global civility and responsible debate. At this time of heightened tension and emotion, it is crucial that both sides show restraint to prevent further incidents of this nature occurring,” he added.
Shaykh Noor Siddiqi, another MAF representative, said: “The actions of the UK media in not publishing the cartoons is highly appreciated by British Muslims and we hope that this kind of self-restraint and mutual respect will ultimately lead to a harmonious society.”
Scotland Yard Police said it was not aware of any arrests during the protest.