DDHK.ORG - The Organization for Islamic Cooperation (OIC) considers the burning of the Koran that took place in the city of Malmo, Sweden, last week as an action that could incite anger and be provocative. The action also contradicts the world's efforts to combat extremism and hatred based on religion and belief.
The statement by the OIC based in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, was quoted by Middle East Monitor from the Turkish news agency, Anadolu Agency, Monday (31/8/2020).
The incident occurred on Friday night last week. At that time, supporters of the Danish racist figure, Rasmus Paludan, who headed the organization Tight Direction (Stram Kurs), burned a Alquran in protest. They went berserk because Paludan was forbidden to meet them.
The demonstration sparked riots. In that incident the police arrested 10 people, and a number of officers were injured. The Danish government also banned Paludan from entering the country for two years.
The OIC Islamophobia monitor has praised the Danish government's decision on the incident. They asked Muslims in Sweden to remain restrained and avoid violence.
Although Paludan was not allowed to enter Sweden, his supporters still met to discuss their actions. As a result, three people were arrested on charges of inciting racial hatred.
Paludan had caused a stir when last year he burned it Alquran which is wrapped in meat. He is also the leader of a hardline anti-immigrant group in Denmark.
Cursed Turkey
Turkey strongly condemns the arson Alquran carried out by right-wing activists in Malmo, Sweden. Turkey also sees the action as provocative.
"We strongly condemn the terrible provocations carried out by an Islamophobic and racist politician and his followers," the Turkish Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Saturday (29/8/2020) local time.
The footage of the arson immediately sparked a reaction from the anti-racist group in Malmo. They block traffic and burn tires on the road.
"This provocative act is a heavy blow to the culture of coexistence and European values," said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as quoted by Anadolu.
According to Turkey, Muslims in Europe are faced with discriminatory and racist attitudes in everyday life. "This despicable act of holy book shows that the threat facing Muslims in Europe has come."
(Source: CNN Indonesia)
