By making the defamation of any religion, caste or creed a punishable offence, Abu Dhabi has set a glowing example

The United Arab Emirates has taken historic decisions from time-to-time and has set an example for the world. UAE President Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan has issued a decree that declares defamation of religions, caste, creed, colour, or doctrine will be a crime punishable with heavy sentence. This law that was implemented recently, will act as a torchlight and will show a way to the world.

This is a very big development — the courage and strength shown by the UAE Government and its leaders depicts the true image of the values of Islam. However, it is heartning to see that there exists a distorted image of Islam as a religion. President Sheikh Khalifa has proved that he is not only a true Muslim, but also a follower of the instructions given by the holy prophet.

After the holy month of Ramzan, the Emirates has given the Muslims of the world, a true gift of Eid. It is obvious that the light of Allah shines upon the people of Emirates in their daily lives through its leaders. The concept and creation of this law should be seen as a mercy of God.

The UAE has taken humanity, peace and brotherhood among human beings to a high level by showing them the path of living life in true harmony. There is no scope of hatred and differentiation on this road. Humanity is a part of God’s creation. Differentiation due to colour, creed or faiths is a crime in itself and an insult to Allah’s creation. Whosoever breaks the law is worthy of punishment and condemnation.

The UAE has suggested strict and harsh punishment so that no one takes it as a mere eyewash. The people of the UAE have extended full cooperation to the law and have proved that they want a future based on such culture and love.

This historical step taken by the Emirates is a very big step for all the Islamic nations. It gives out a positive message. This law will serve as a sign of brotherhood and cooperation among the people around the world. Those who are opposed to this law are in reality far from Allah and Islamic values.

The law vindicates the policy of tolerance followed by India and its people. It gives out a message that progress and development of humanity is the only road that can have a lasting effect on the growth of the society.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has always stressed on the need of oneness in human values and has emphatically stated that no discrimination can be tolerated on basis of religion, caste, creed or colour.

The step taken by the UAE has taken Mr Modi’s faith to a new level. Now it is the responsibility of the Muslims and the community leaders to support this thought process that is now flowing in the country and the world at large. This step should be welcomed in India, and people should change their approach towards the society in general.

Today, religion is being used as a weapon by people for vested interests. The idea of different segments of human beings was to foster brotherhood and closeness between persons of various strata and background. However, the result is just the opposite. Jealousy, hatred and violence now govern peoples’ lives. No faith, caste, creed or colour promotes targeting other humans. Yet, the amount of loss of human lives due to these factors is unbelievable and tragic.

Democratic nations were compelled to promote different faiths and sects due to their political needs. However, nations with monarchy can bring about this change and present the world with the right image of human values.

This is exactly what the United Arab Emirates has done. Now if the proponents of these values do not come out in support of this, then their claims will be deemed to be hollow and baseless. All religious heads and leaders should encourage the step taken by the UAE Government and ensure that it is upheld in their areas too.

This is not in the interest of the UAE but for humanity and its people in general to lead a normal, self-sustaining life with values inherited from their faith and family to guide them and the law of the land to protect them. UAE deserves praise for being the torchbearer to the world and showing the path of progress and peace to the people.

(The writer is chief editor of The Daily Milap)