A MUSLIM representative has spoken out about the controversy surrounding the cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad and the ensuing angry protests. Race relations were sent into crisis following the publication of the cartoons in a Danish newspaper and subseque

A MUSLIM representative has spoken out about the controversy surrounding the cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad and the ensuing angry protests.

Race relations were sent into crisis following the publication of the cartoons in a Danish newspaper and subsequently in other countries.

Protests by Muslims have turned into riots around the world, with at least four people dying in Afghanistan.

In London protesters carried placards, some of which urged the killing of people who insulted Islam.

Mohammed Alam, director of North Herts Minority Forum in Hitchin, described the cartoons as "very offensive" and said that he feels they were "deliberately published to insult the Muslim community around the world".

Explaining why the cartoons are so offensive to Muslims, Mr Alam said: "Prophet Muhammad is regarded as the best human being on earth. He spent his life to promote peace and truth, give justice to the vulnerable people and save mankind from atrocity.

"He is beyond and above any criticism. From an Islamic point of view, people are not even allowed to draw a decent picture of the holy prophet."

Mr Alam said he "totally values and respects" free speech but added: "I don't think it should attack any religion and hurt people.

"Everybody is allowed to discuss religion but at the same time they equally must be responsible and respect other people's faith and mustn't cross a barrier.

"On this occasion, they have crossed the limit."

However, Mr Alam was keen to stress that he did not approve of the protests in London.

He said: "I didn't like some people marching on the street in London carrying those offensive banners.

"We live in a civilised society so we have to protest in a civilised way."

* What is your view on the cartoons and on the protests around the world? Write to us at The Comet, Bank House, Primett Road, Stevenage, SG1 3EE or email editorial@thecomet.net