No religion has a 'right not to be offended', says security minister
Security minister emphasizes all religions have the right to be challenged amid concerns of extremism.
- Bilawal Riaz
- 1 min read
The security minister has stated that no religion should be exempt from criticism, emphasizing that all faiths have the right to be challenged. This declaration comes amidst concerns about extremists using intimidation and violence against those who allegedly insult Islam. The minister’s comments precede the introduction of a new official definition of extremism aimed at preventing funding and engagement with Islamist and far-right groups that promote ideologies conflicting with British values. Research commissioned by the government’s counter-extremism chief revealed an increase in radicalized protests against perceived blasphemy, with connections found between UK activists and an extremist Islamist party in Pakistan. Criticism has been directed at the government for not addressing these extremist groups effectively, with calls for increased transparency and accountability in dealing with such threats.