Worldwide Condemnation
Sweden’s Justice Minister, Gunnar Strommer, has stated that the government is exploring the possibility of making the desecration of the Holy Quran or books associated with other faiths illegal, following recent incidents of Quran burnings that have allegedly compromised the country’s security.
In one such incident, an individual who migrated from Iraq to Sweden burned pages of the Holy Quran outside a mosque in Stockholm on the first day of Eid ul Adha. This act has sparked outrage in the Muslim world and has been condemned by Pope Francis.
A woman protester displays placard against the desecration of the Holy Quran in Sweden last week.
The Swedish Security Services have expressed concerns about the impact of such actions on the country’s safety. In response to this incident, the police have rejected several applications to hold protests and burn the Holy Quran due to security reasons.
However, Swedish courts have overturned these decisions, citing the extensive freedom of speech protections provided by the country’s laws.
Nevertheless, Strommer revealed that the government is assessing the situation and contemplating potential amendments to existing legislation. He posed the question of whether the current legal framework is adequate or if it warrants reconsideration.
Strommer emphasized that Sweden has become a “prioritized target” for attacks, and he noted that the Quran burning incident from last week has resulted in threats to the country’s internal security.
The repercussions of the incident have also had a negative impact on Sweden’s aspirations to join NATO, as Turkey’s President Tayyip Erdogan has declared that his country cannot endorse Sweden’s application until Quran burnings cease.
Pakistan observes Sanctity of Quran Day today
Meanwhile, Pakistanis observed the Sanctity of the Holy Quran Day today (Friday) in response to the burning of the holy book in Sweden. Millions of people observed the day to demonstrate their love and respect for the Holy Quran.
“Dua” was offered in mosques after Friday prayers for the sanctity of the holy book.
Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urged the nation to observe Sanctity of Quran Day on Friday.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Parliament also asked Sweden to take action against the man who hurt millions of Muslims by burning a copy of the holy book last week in Sweden.
The joint sitting of the Parliament condemned the incident and demanded action against the desecration of the Holy Quran.
