The global angst generated by the trailers of the so-called film “Innocence of Muslims” on YouTube depicting things in a light completely unacceptable to all those who believe in responsible free expression, Muslims and others,  has assumed serious proportions. The production of this film has not come as an isolated development. A number of such actions in the past, mainly emanating from western countries, have resulted in avoidable and large scale death and destruction across the world. A perception seems to be gaining currency that these actions seem to be designed at provoking a Muslim backlash, which eventually could see a serious clash between countries and even key world civilisations. And that is a horrible idea, and underlines the need for the political leaders of the countries where such actions emanate, to act. There is a strand of opinion in the western world that sees such actions as an assertion of “freedom of expression and speech”. Today some of the most ardent supporters of free speech and expression are of the opinion that this kind of “assertion” is patently irresponsible, with the possibility of avoidable loss of innocent lives and destruction of property. The incident in Libya resulting in the killing of the US Ambassador and other people there needs to be seen in the same light. Muslims’ deep hurt is understandable and as such the circulation of this film needs to be banned. The film seems to be an act aimed at personal financial gain, publicity and provoking a backlash; its producers must be brought to justice, especially for inciting hate and violence, and the deaths in Libya and elsewhere. It is also expected that governments throughout the world take effective measures, including enacting special laws that recognise that such actions incite political strife, hatred and social instability that imperils world peace. At the end of the day free speech and expression cannot be a blank cheque with the inherent perils of large scale political strife and wars between people and races.

Lastupdate on : Fri, 14 Sep 2012 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Fri, 14 Sep 2012 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Sat, 15 Sep 2012 00:00:00 IST