"The United States needs to single out terrorists, not Muslims," commented Syed Jawaid Iqbal, Chairman Moderates. He shared his views in response to an upcoming US congressional hearing on Islamic radicalism and Muslims' role in home-grown terrorism, which has sparked widespread protests in New York as it unjustly focuses on Muslims as potential terrorists.
"It is very unfortunate that a majority of recent terror plots in the United States have involved those with a violent view of Islam, making it difficult to ignore the faith factor. But the US authorities need to realise that they have to find ways to eliminate extremism rather than make moves which can alienate the large, patriotic and moderate Muslim population in America," Jawaid said.
"Peter King, chairman of the Homeland Security Committee, US House of Representatives has said that there is a tendency of self extremism among Muslims. This generalised comment is an alarming reminder of growing bigotry and anti-Muslim sentiment in America. Instead of addressing the real issue of radical ideology, it will only discourage dissent and tolerance in society," he added.-PR