Outcry from Muslim Communities over Salman Rushdie Knighthood
Protests have taken place in Muslim communities worldwide following the recent announcement that controversial author Salman Rushdie is to be awarded a knighthood in the Queen's 81st birthday Honours List.
by Daniel Blake
Posted: Thursday, June 21, 2007, 6:47 (BST)
Protests have taken place in Muslim communities worldwide following the recent announcement that controversial author Salman Rushdie is to be awarded a knighthood in the Queen's 81st birthday Honours List.
In particular, Pakistan and Iran have spoken out strongly against the decision, with the Pakistan Government even summoning the British High Commissioner Robert Brinkley to formally protest.
It says that an "utter lack of sensitivity" has been demonstrated in promoting Rushdie in such a way, and that the decision is greatly offensive to Muslims.
In Pakistan, angry public protests have seen Union Jack flags and effigies of Rushdie burnt.
Rushdie's profile rose greatly when his fourth novel - The Satanic Verses, published in 1988 - was greeted with protests and threats against his life from the Islamic community.
At the time, Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Khomeini, issued a fatwa ordering Muslims to kill the author due to his severe blasphemy in his writings.
Since that time Rushdie has been living in high security, and police have said four separate attempts to assassinate the author have been uncovered.
The Satanic Verses was inspired by some aspects of the life of the prophet Mohammad and disputed readings of verses in the Koran.
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The comments below are readers' personal opinions and are in no way intended to reflect the editorial opinion of Christian Today.
Added: Thursday, June 28, 2007, 11:45 (BST)
Today the whole world is suffering from multiple problems like terrorism, peace, security and many others. In that crucial time, the addition of contraversal religious disturbances may create immortal distances not among a community of people but among nations. All religions should be respected and the religious values should also be governed with extreme care, I suppose. So, I protest against any activities or honors which could disturb the feelings of any religion believers whether they are Muslims, Christians, Jews or others.
Usman Khawaja, Pakistan
Added: Thursday, June 21, 2007, 12:59 (BST)
My understanding of a knighthood, is that it is an honour, given to some one for services to their country.
I do not think that Salman Rushdie has done anything for this country and I do not think he deserves this honour.
I cannot believe that the Queen thinks he deserves it either. I would like to know who suggested it to her because they need to look for another job!
Anna Lee, England
