OIC express concerns over targetting Muslims in Sri Lanka

The General Secretariat of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) expressed its deep concern over reports on escalating hate speech and hostility towards Muslims in Sri Lanka, the promotion of biased and rejected allegations holding members of the Muslim community responsible for the spread of the novel Coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) in the country, a statement from the Islamic body said today.

The Middle East based body also noted reports that authorities cremated bodies of the Muslim victims of the pandemic and arrested community members who rejected these practices,

In this regard, the OIC reaffirmed its firm position rejecting all policies and practices targeting the rights of Muslims anywhere.” Furthermore, it called on the authorities in Sri Lanka to ensure the safety, security and rights of the Muslim community, as well as commitment to respect their religious practices and rituals, safeguard their dignity and to stand firmly against all parties behind the promotion of hatred, Islamophobia, and anti- Muslim sentiment in Sri Lanka,”

The OIC also stressed that the current global juncture requires the involvement of all actors in strengthening the bonds of cooperation and the values ​​of solidarity among states and consolidating cohesion and synergy among constituents of each state to collectively and effectively respond to COVID-19 pandemic and its repercussions on all societies.