These actions are not expressions of freedom of speech. They are calculated to induce, divide, and attempts to spread hatred under the guise of protest.
As a Muslim, I clearly condemn the burning of the Holy Qur'an. It is a very rude act for the principle of religious tolerance that supports not only people of faith, but also British society. Free speech should not be used as a shield for such acts that serve no purpose other than incite hatred and create division.
Those who burn the Quran from malice cannot realize that it is a living Bible and is preserved in the minds of millions of people. Even if all physical copies are destroyed, they will be rewritten from memory within a few days. Fire cannot extinguish that message.
However, Islam does not allow a violent response to such provocation. True faith is defined not by retribution, but by resilience. The Prophet Muhammad endured many years of persecution with persecution, responding with kindness and education rather than anger.
As a member of the Ahmadiyya Muslim community, I am proud to be part of a movement that has always defended the deep Islamic principles of peace, loyalty and integration, as reflected in our motto.
That's an example that we must follow today. Extremism and violence from Muslims and non-Muslims do not represent religion. They corrupt it.
Malik Fraz Ahmad, Boars Well Drive, Bradford
