Threats are not part of the Islamic tradition of intellectual debate and dialogue
The Muslim Council of Britain condemns the death threats reported against scholars such as Dr. Usama Hasan. Such behaviour is unacceptable and against the spirit of the long Islamic tradition of intellectual debate and dialogue.
Differences of opinion, from mild and minor to serious and major, have existed and will continue to exist amongst scholars of Islam. No scholar, however much we may disagree with their views, should be subjected to such bullying and hate campaign.
Scholars must have the right and space to express their views and others are allowed to debate in a civilised, dignified and Islamic manner. Of course, no scholar has the right to impose their views on others and similarly there is no compulsion on anyone to accept one particular opinion. In that lies our unity, progress and success (falah) as a diverse faith community. |
