Identifier
Created
Classification
Origin
05DHAKA2619
2005-06-07 23:20:00
UNCLASSIFIED
Embassy Dhaka
Cable title:  

Media Reaction: Koran Desecration;Dhaka

Tags:  KMDR OIIP OPRC KPAO PREL ETRD PTER ASEC BG OCII 
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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