The President of the Australian Federation of Islamic Councils (AFIC), Mr Ikebal Adam Patel on behalf of the Muslims of Australia today expressed deep concern at the vote to ban the constructions of
Minarets in Switzerland. This is yet another example of Islamophobia as a symbol of Islamic Architecture is being used to marginalise some one third of the world population.

He said that this would breach Switzerland’s obligations towards upholding freedom of religion and equates to requiring churches not to display a cross or a synagogue not displaying the Star of David.

It’s a sad day as the constitutional amendment was targeted towards one religious community only. How a minaret or a cross or the Star of David offends anyone baffles all right thinking humans.

He mentioned that the Swiss people have overturned its years of upholding diversity, freedom of religion and human rights and the decision will hurt its international standing and will only create
religious tension as this decision has instigated several attacks on Mosques causing fear and concern for local Muslims.

Mr Patel concluded by appealing to the international community including the Australian Government to put pressure on Switzerland to remove this ban and let the Muslims to practice their religion as

prescribed by God the Almighty. A challenge to the European Court of Human Rights might well be the only option to overturn this abhorrent development.

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