Controversy Over Novel About Muhammad’s Bride Continues

U.S. publishing company Random House will not publish a planned novel by Sherry Jones, called “The Jewel of Medina,” that was expected to hit stores on August 12th. The Islamically-themed novel explores Aisha, the child bride of the prophet Muhammad, who overcame a number of obstacles to reach her potential as a revered woman and…

Share Button
Read More

Probe into Threats Over Cable Pornography Visible in North Africa

Anti-terrorism investigators in Paris are examining threats against a leading French cable TV channel over pornographic films that can be viewed in North Africa. Canal-Plus, the pay-TV channel, received letters from people claiming to be Muslim and threatening to blow up its headquarters if it continues to broadcast a once-a-month pornographic film Saturday evenings. The…

Share Button
Read More

    Ethnic Data: Perplexed after the decision of the Constitutional Council

    Researchers are concerned about the impact of their work on censorship, and the article on ethnic statistics included in the _Hortefeux’ law. The decision by the Constitutional Council to censure the article on ethnic statistics has frustrated researchers, approaching topics of discrimination with great hesitation, and concern about the effects of forensic investigations relating to…

    Share Button
    Read More

      Merkel Voices Concerns Over Opera Cancellation

      Angel Merkel today warned of the dangers of “self-censorship” in Germany after a Berlin opera house cancelled its staging of a Mozart opera because of fears that scenes in it would offend Muslims. “We must take care that we do not retreat out of a fear of potentially violent radicals,” the German chancellor was quoted…

      Share Button
      Read More

        U.K. To Ban Incitement To Religious Hatred; Hindu, Muslim Groups Welcome The Measure

        By Hasan Suroor LONDON: Ignoring protests from secular groups and Opposition parties, the British Government has decided to go ahead with plans to make incitement to religious hatred an offence. A bill to this effect was introduced in the Commons amid fears among writers, satirists and rights activists that it would stifle free speech, but…

        Share Button
        Read More