Media Reaction: Koran Desecration;Dhaka

UNCLAS DHAKA 002619 SIPDIS FOR I/FW, B/G, IIP/G/NEA-SA, B/VOA/N (BANGLA SERVICE) STATE FOR SA/PAB, SA/PPD (LSCENSNY, SSTRYKER),SA/RA, INR/R/MR, AND PASS TO USAID FOR ANE/ASIA/SA/B (WJOHNSON) CINCPAC FOR PUBLIC DIPLOMACY ADVISOR, J51 (MAJ TURNER),J45 (MAJ NICHOLLS) USARPAC FOR APOP-IM (MAJ HEDRICK) E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: KMDR OIIP OPRC KPAO PREL ETRD PTER ASEC BG OCII SUBJECT: Media Reaction: Koran Desecration;Dhaka Summary: "Naya Diganta" editorial opines that by admitting the incidents of desecration, the Pentagon behaved in a somewhat responsible manner but urges the Muslims not to exceed the limit of tolerance and restraint in voicing their protest and anger against the desecration. Following are excerpts from the editorial: -------------- Koran Desecration -------------- "Desecration of the Quran and the Pentagon's Confession: It Is The Responsibility of the United States To Gain Confidence of the World Community" Pro-Islamic Bangla language daily "Naya Diganta" editorially comments (6/7/05): The Pentagon has admitted the desecration of the Quran by American troops which were earlier reported by Newsweek magazine. By admitting the incidents of desecration, the Pentagon behaved in a somewhat responsible manner. But investigation and the admission of guilt are no solution to the desecration of the Quran. The United States has no right to hurt the religious feelings of hundreds of millions of religious people nor has it the right to commit inhuman torture on prisoners. The religious oppression is evidence of the Americans' hostility and intolerance toward Islam and Muslims. Through its religious intolerance, the United States has displayed utter disregard for human rights and democratic niceties. The resolution of this crime cannot be limited to the mere admission of guilt and offering an apology. The U.S. administration cannot avoid its responsibility by simply blaming some soldiers or punishing them. We are respectful of any religions or holy books and very conscious about that respect. Communal harmony and respect and tolerance for others' opinion and religion are part of Islamic values. The Muslims should not exceed the limit of tolerance and restraint in voicing their protest and anger against the desecration. The United States must take actions which will console the world community. The United States must find its own way to establish its credibility. Thomas