There may or may not be a God.Islam seems to be pretty
arrogant in proclaiming that it knows best.
I find the use of "kuffar" to be a disparaging remark for people not sharing the Islamic viewpoint.
We need a new religion or better still a philosophy incorporating humanist ideals.
A philosophy would be better as it does not pretend to know
but asks that we all continually ask questions.

Richard Brady, wallington, england

Sooner or later Britain will get a Government with leaders who don't worship the opinion polls, then somebody will reap the whirlwind. The question is who will be the government & who will be the opressed. Muslim or Christian?

Not a nice thought, but as long as Political Tollerance = Looking the other way very little can be done to avoid this destiny.

Nick, Emsdetten, NRW

What these people preach is sedition. I'd like to see a major newspaper investigate why these criminals are not being prosecuted.

John, Berlin, Germany

Barrie, of Perth, Australia, says: "The extremists take advantage of politically correct cultural relativism." Hmm...I would suggest the term "politically correct" needs to be located geographically, since it cannot logically be in accordance with the political constitution of every country. If we follow this route, we find that "political correctness" originates in the USA, and refers to the American Constitution. And since the USA is constitutionally a secular republic, "political correctness" cannot apply to the UK, which is constitutionally a Christian monarchy. A lot of people are quite determined that it is going to stay that way.

Edmund Burke, Kingston upon Thames, England

Muslims have problems living among non -muslims but they have no problems taking the benefit for years. Money earned from kaffirs, however dub ious the means are, is completely Halal. Hyprocrisy at its worst form.

harry, london ,

I didn't read this completely, but i got the picture. Im a student from India, doing my masters.Im a Christian (not converted).Not all Asians are muslims OK. I come from a place where quite an anti-muslim feelings exist (sadly, most places in India).While studying i used to work part-time in a garage as a sales assistant here.I had customers calling me names like Paki (Im not from Pakistan), black b*****d (Im not black :) , terrorist (Im not so).Now, you may say those people are brainless Jade Goody's. But some were really educated high flyers! Just 'coz Im an asian that means Im all these? My experience reached a point where i could understand why British muslims are like this (Im not justifying terrorism and I Never will).You guys cornered them. British people (generally) never let muslims or asians integrate into the culture. It takes two to tango. Until you do so the problems will persist. I have never heard of home-grown terrorists in America. Why? Why only in Britain? PEACE...

Sunil, Edinburgh, UK

I am sure that Mr Riyad Ul Haq is an educated man and the Times an extremely fair newspaper. I was just wondering why all these Muslim men have to write to this column and defend him. Can he not do it himself ? or does he not want to justify himself to a mainly Kaffir readership in a Jewish owned newspaper ! I am fedup of Muslims defending Islam by calling it a religion of peace, love thy neighbor and all the rest of motherhood and apple pie stuff. The facts are for all to see. A Non tolerant religion not only towards non muslims but towards other sects within Islam.Conversion to other religions is punishable by death. Conversion into Islam of followers of other religions at any cost is an obligation of every Muslim. Anyone marrying a Muslm must convert to Islam, whether a man or woman.Homosexuality punishable by death. Women have almost no rights. Can be beaten, divorced at man's will, has no say if the husband chooses to bring a new wife ....One can go on and on. These are facts.

Mocho, London, U.K.

Muslims have a right to reject Western trends like teenage promiscuity and drug abuse. If they want to live in a Sharia society they have the human right to move to a country where they will feel more at home. There are 57 Muslim countries. However, they do not have the right to incite hatred or violence here in the UK!

Joe, London,

"Muslims are brothers and sisters, we have pain for each other, we unite as one"

If that is so why did Muslim kill each other by the hundreds of thousands in the Iran-Iraq war?

Roger, Cambs, UK

"This does not mean that every person who resembles being a Muslim should be targetted or blamed. "

Ach, but they should. Do these so called moderate Muslims _do_ anything to oppose those radical ones?

No, they don't. Talk is cheap, deeds are much more convincing.

I do understand them, they are too afraid (of radicals) to do anything and basically they don't care what happens to "kuffar". Term, which only function is to insult people, like pig or dog. Racism in pure form and who cares if a dog gets kicked.

I see that the situation is like being a member of SS after second world war, you are guilty, because your organisation is for killing people and it doesn't matter what you personally do. It's enough that you are a supporting member and do what you have been told to do.

So every Muslim is being held responsible for every stoning and murdered girl, they accept it and see it as inevitable, ins allah. As long as they _do_ something about it.

Tuomas, Lappeenranta,

Last week Sadia, a sweet Pakistani girl who refused to be sold in a marriage set up to bring her future husband to live here in Belgium, was brutally murdered by her family as they sent her brother to pump bullets into her. Something to do about their so called "honour" apparently.

Islam, the religion of peace we all should take the time to get to know better? Right.

Teddy, brussels, Belgium

Hey Omid in Dubai,

EXTREME=Impose your will and beliefs on others.

MODERATE=Live and let live.


Peace!

Miguel

Miguel, LA, CA

Islam teaches peace, equality, it teaches to love each other, do not force anything upon anyone.. islam is taught through actions, not force.. why are the western world so scared ?? why always attacking muslims ? why not look into ISLAM.. and see for yourself.. its the perfect religion...causes no harm to anyone, and teaches to live with JEWS, CHRISTIANS, HINDUS, SIKHS, ETC ETC ..together !! does not mention aything about HATRED for any other religion... Why even bring religion into this WAR of terror ! has anyone ever thought about the oil in middle eastern countries, the amount of money generated from WAR ?? this is what its about,.. STOP PICKING ON MUSLIMS ! they have done nothing wrong, look at ones self first ! before judging others..LIVE AND LET LIVE...

Ashleigh Warner, coventry, UK

This article is a load of nonsense and written from completely an anti-Islamic perspective. What's even worse is reading some of the absurd responses to the article. Mohammed Khan of London and some other brothers have already responded along the same lines and they're right. Firstly, the Deobandis are just normal traditional Muslim's from the Sunni Hanafi school of thought and we're certainly not a sect. So before one comes out with remarks such as this one needs to REALLY know what they're talking about, otherwise all you are doing is adding fuel to the already raging fire and just feeding Islamaphobia and hatred of Muslims. All the Masjid's (or mosques) are independant of one another and are not controlled by any one figure or group and therefore, this fact simply destroys the entire argument of this ridiculous article. And more pertinently, whether you know Sheikh Riyad-ul-Haq or not, it is blatantly obvious that this article is completely one-sided and lacks balance. It's a joke.

Batman, UK,

The threat to islam is not comming from the west, its comming from the hardline muslims splitting the religion into various extremist sects bent on destruction. If peaceful muslims feel threatened. Then they must look within their own religion and their own people. Stop using other cultures and peoples as an excuse for your own problems.

The west cannot deal with it, that would be seen as racist and interferance by most muslims. But if muslim people as a whole will not try and stop the exstremist side to islam, then you cannot blame countries like Britain for defending its people against quite obvious and direct threats to our way of life.

Mr G Courtney, Earlswood, England

Ok, lets get down to cases. I have just read a book , the author is a muslim and he fell into one of the very many islamist organisations in Britain which preach that the islamist state or caliph will take over the world, by force if neccessary, and make war against the kaffur or kaffir, in other words non muslims. Its a well known fact that islamists and many muslims consider in the world anyone else as inferior. This word kaffir/kaffur is extremely racist. The gentleman I speak of, after he realised exactly what these extremist islamist organisations beleived, left the particular one he was with.

What I`m trying to say is, is that there are deep rooted muslim people out there and very close to home, who wish to end quite literally the wests way of life and replace it with a caliphate run state. One, this won`t happen, because the west, despite its faults is far more resolute and organised, our ancient history shows this. Two unlike a caliphate, we in the west value individualism.

Mr G Courtney, Earlswood, England

“We are in a very dangerous position here. We live amongst the kuffar, we work with them, we associate with them, we mix with them and we begin to pick up their habits.”
Bet he doesn't have a problem accepting welfare though.

jon crow, townsville, australia

Excellent point carolyn of London, the fascists get their teachings direct from saudi arabia, the wahabbi teachers from their are crazy.

Adiel, London,

sikhs have lived under extreme islam.......better to go down fighting for freedom of expression than a life lived under tryanny.

charlie, GRAVESEND,

I always hear, Islam doen't promote violence against the innocent, well that might be true. But it seems to work, that certain Muslims (that's what they are, brothers ans sisters, aren't they) declare non-Muslims as not innocent and then they can kill them and feel good. And please don't come always with the cruisades of the long- gone- by middleages! Everybody should have learned from the past's mistakes and avoid them, instead of using them as a lame "but they used to do it, too, 1000 years ago". I really miss true action against radicalisation from within the Muslim community. What I hear is blaming the British government for not providing and not propagating. If only non-Muslim minorities in Islamic countries could enjoy a bit of the freedom, respect and consideration that Muslim communities in Britain are entiteld to!!! I am deeply disappointed by the passive and defensive attitude of the majority of the British Muslims.

MM Noble, Glasgow, uk

Good morning. What about my reply top Mohamed from Leicester?

WHAT AN ARBITRARY CENSOR !

Rodrigo Diaz de Vivar, Londonistan,

Good luck in next two decades, British. A new age has become. An age of Islam. Good bye, anglo-saxon Britain...

Jonáš Pospíchal, Brno, Czech republic

Interesting points brought about about the Jewish community.

barbara kline, Boston, USA

Some of the things that have been transcribed here from Ulhaq, especially on the topic of Jewish Fundamentalism, raise many questions. It is quite clear to any discerning reader that UlHaq could not have just fabricated these points. Unfortunately, this has made it important for the community to discuss these matters and Jewish leaders need to respond to them. If there is any truth in them, then this means that there are some ugly truths that the Jewish community need to provide explanations for. We constantly hear many evil things in the media about the Muslim community and their beliefs, but this information goes beyond anything seen before about Muslims. It is quite shameful for the Jewish community if what UlHaq has said is true.

Barbara Kline, Boston, USA

They say we pretend to be the victims "look at what we did in the former yugoslavia". The only reason the west stopped the extrimism of the Serbs is because the Serbs intended to expand thier atrocities further afield and certainly not because muslims were being killed! We will do well to remember that all the atrocities commited on the "moderate" muslims was during UN's prescence in the country (one could not tell a muslim apart from a christian! but the massacres on these "moderates" still took place so i don't believe in this moderation codswallop that we are continually fed). The UN was in the country whilst muslim men and boys from the ages of 16 to 60 were still being massacred. How selective memories become that only bits of the not so long ago history are remembered at opportune times!

asma, Walsall,

What a load of rubbish!!!

soheil, lancaster, UK

We talk about sects within Islam being at war, is the Irish affair any different between Protestants and Catholics. Or the difference between the orthodox Jews and Zionists

Who were the killers of the Muslims in the spanish crusade?

Im sure you are all educated to judge yourself.

This is certainly no defence, but the foreign policy especially of the USA has to be looked at especially as they believe it is ok to go around the world and do whatever they want. Does this not give these nutcases more ammunition?

Within Islam the killing be it a person of any religion or race is strictly wrong!

As well as this we are taught to abide by the laws of the land.

Once again i reiterate bring the people to account for having these views or promoting any form of hatred, dont blame every Muslim you see.

Mohammed, leicester, uk

I find it rather annoying that for the sake of a few the name of the whole Muslim world is tarnished. Let me make it clear, that i AGREE with the conclusion that the newspaper has come too. In my opinion the Deobandi/Tablighi sect is a group which has fundamental views. However the people who are responsible for these crimes or promote hatred should be held to account. This does not mean that every person who resembles being a Muslim should be targetted or blamed.

Islam in no way promotes violence, but it condemns attacks on the innocent. For all those who make false allegations that Islam was spread through violence in the early days, can they give one account where the Muslims went to war out of choice!

What is further annoying is all the American who are coming and provoking the matter further. I wholeheartedly do not agree with innocent lives being lost be it 7/7 or 9/11. However it is acceptable for the IRA to be funded in the USA and take the lives of the British?

Mohammed, leicester, uk

part 2. The article on Sheikh Riyadh-ul-Haq is apparently another misfortune for the media as they have shown their lack of common sense in relating issues without full understanding and thoughtful consideration of the impact it will have on the society.

Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth. Marcus Aurelius
Judging others against our own standards is being egoistical. Respect everyone's right to be different! Wai-Fatt Yee

suhail, oldham, england

islam is a peacefull religion and mr Riyad ul haqs speaches are very inspiring and benificial if they are mentioned in its true context not pasted

shabir, leicester, u.k.

assalamualaikum readers

Please take a step back and ask yourself, who are you to judge anybody? Only God can judge, before pointing fingers and taking small parts out of his speeches, paint the whole picture and take his talks into context with times. the media do not expose the suffering muslims are having in the world today. Muslims are brothers and sisters, we have pain for each other, we unite as one, read and understand before publishing stories about our scholars. May allah guide you on the right path, aameen

Aftaab, blackburn, england

Edwin Thornber, Bucharest - I fail to see how or why a return to Victorian values should be supposed to be the antidote to Islamic fundamentalism, not least because that scourge was one of the few problems absent in Victorian times.
If what is being proposed is the execution of terrorists, then I entirely agree, but there is no point in attempting to return to Victorian values in general, because that option has already been decisively rejected by the British electorate.

Dave, Southampton, UK

This has completely been taken out of context and I believe this is a conspiracy against the great Scholar in Britain. His speeches do not incite to racial hatred and are not anti semitic in any way. All the Imams mentioned in the above article are pious men and have sacrificed immensely for the Musilms of GB. They certainly do not preach hatred against other religions and this is evident as a great deal of their followers predominantly live amongst other communities and faiths and are tolerant towards them. The issue of Deobandi mosques, is absolutely ridiculous and I do not think I have come across any article as pathetic as this. If anything the followers/students of these particular Schools are the most disciplined, tolerant, well mannered, respectable than others. In all the speeches that I have heard of Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq they have never incited hatred amongst jews, christians and Hindu's, can't see where this false information has derived.

Abdullah, Birmingham,

if you hear the guy speak,he is found to be so gentle,and in actual fact he is one of the most intelligent people you will meet

muhammed, manchester, england

All the above people want peace and yet look at how racial the above opinions are. Muslims are not allowed to do certain t ings like listen to music or drink alcohol etc, so it is not a case of not integrating. If Muslims did drink,then they cannot be muslim if they are not following their religion. Why don't you ask people from other faiths to change their religion?And they say Britain is a democratic society where free-speech is allowed....haha

David Lawson, Preston, UK

I would just like to say please, please and please listen to Sheykhs lectures and audio tapes before making any assumption over this noble person.

Ask yourself this question? Isn’t it funny how some people are partaking in forwarding negative views against Shaykh and by GOD not a single of them read or listened to any his talks?

I have been attending Shaykhs lectures for a number of years now, and have found NO fault with his teachings. In fact his teachings had encouraged me to distance myself away from having any kinds of hatred thoughts towards other people.

Mr ‘Andrew Norfolk’ is out of this world, a dangerous man whose sole purpose is to incite hatred into people’s hearts. Surely he is looking for a promotion through his deceitful allegation (may God forgive him).
Men like him needs to be arrested and eradicated from position of power so that innocent people maybe protected to live harmoniously together.

Ahmed, Brimingham, England

I have known about this Scholar for a long time and I urge non muslims to research for themselves-go to these mosques,speak to the people and make your own mind about Islam.

Dr A I Sange, Blackburn, England

islam promotes peace and not violence. u cant judge a book by its cover.the same with islam you cant judge the relegion coz of a few ppl who are not bothered.these people might be promoting violence but that does not mean every muslim is the same.you need to study islam for yourself and then you will know what islam really is.if it was what people say it is then it wouldnt have been the fastest growing religion in the world would it?theres a saying every dish is not the same.in the same way every muslim is not the same.

mo, leicester, uk

I have read through all the comments - a lot of them from foaming at the mouth fundamentalists and equally, reactionaries - trying to find one that I agreed with. I finally found one from Terry, London, UK:

"Replace suicidal Anglo-American liberal ideology with democratism, the rule of the democratic majority. Once this is accomplished we will be in a position to deal with Islamism as a secondary threat.

First, we must deal with liberalism - and liberalist extremism. "

Here is the answer. Great Britain’s once great and staunchly held values and the intricate society that was its result has been debased, traduced and obliterated by Social-Liberalism (and paradoxically, later, by socialist based totalitarianism).

In their quest to destroy what they perceive as the ruling classes, Britain's historical institutions, ancient values and law and order have become its innocent victims of socialists' pipedreams. Multi-culturalism could be the last piece of the jigsaw.

Edwin Thornber, Bucharest,

Dear Readers
I have heard many of the lectures produced and delevered by Riyadh ul Haq and he is a decent, intellectual and intelligent man and scholar, never has he promoted any form of extremism. Perhaps the Time has overlooked the fact that despite so many who have benefitted from his lectures none of them have turned extreme measures or terrorist acts.

Also the islamic schools mentioned have produced many graduates and we conveniently ignore all the good done by Riyadh ul Haq and the other graduates in harmonising the society and interfaith relations etc.

Wake up folks, dont believe everything you read in the papers and go spend some time with real Muslims from who you can learn about the true teachings of our beautiful religion.

Ahmed, Leicester,

Wake up,Brits! Can't you see what's going on in Sweden,Finland or anywhere in the world?
What can you expect from a religion that claims to be THE ONLY TRUE RELIGION?
This is no fanatism,no radicalism,it's Islam,simply!
Apostates should be killed and infidels have the choice between conversion or death.The Koran MENTIONS THIS!
To make matters worse,politicians and leaders are so afraid to offend Muslims that not even the slightest criticism of Islam is possible.
What else do people need to understand?

Andre Medigue, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

mixed views i see!

one comment reads "these muslims should be sent back to where they came from" - maybe they should?

but an observation to point out, maybe they would, had it not been for OUR 300 years of colonial and neo-colonial endevours. we still rule their countries of origin.

maybe we should go out of their lands and let them be. then maybe they might leave ours.

maybe, just maybe.

e.cook, manchester, uk

As a nonbeliver of any religion, I am always amused by the way the brainwashed muslims respond to other peoples' opinion. You cannot back up your claim that islam is a peaceful religion so you have to repeat this same phrase again and again which becomes more and more like a black humor when I consider how many of your Shi'ite brothers have been killed by you Sunni brothers, and vice versa. Some also want us to learn Koran to see how it really is a good religion. Then why should I give a damn to your religious script? I don't want to understand you, just want you to behave yourselves.

terry, London,

Islam is like the snake in the Garden of Eden, hissing it's lies and half-truths to Eve. If radical Islam is not destroyed, it will take over, and when it does, the "moderates" of this so called religion of peace will fall into lock step, right behind the mantra of jihad. What? Do you think they would abondon Islam and convert to Christianity?! Not on your life!

Mike Taylor, Palm Bay , Florida

islam has no place in a modern society, this religion breeds hate of everything non-islamic.
these preachers will do anything to get closer to there ultimate goal

BRITAIN UNDER ISLAMIC LAW

and the cheeky beggers will use the democratic system to finance it.
Everyday we here the same thing islam is a peaceful religion and it is just a small minority which preach hate this is only because the ones that are not preaching hate are denouncing democracy and western values.
Islam segregates itself from main society in order to control and brain wash its followers.

It is about time this country woke up and realised islam can no longer exsist here and it should be sent back to which ever hole it crawled out of. and banished from here forever.

mark , leeds, west yorks

Islam will only be a religion of peace when Saudi Arabia allow the building of churches and temples in Riyadh. So, can all the moderate Muslims please petition the Saudi government and the Wahhabis to practise the tolerant part of Islam?
Furthermore, moderate Muslims must also preach the true message of Islam to the Wahhabis, the Deobandis and Osama etc instead of forever telling non-Muslims to read the Quran. I am happy to be a kuffar because of the conflicting interpretations of the Words of Allah.

Carolyn, Surbiton,

Sheikh Riyadh Ul Haq is one of the most prominent & well spoken scholars in the UK. He's not an extremist, & it's amazing how an article like this can blow things out of all proportion. Riyadh Ul Haq has immense knowlege of Islam & for any of you that believe the "media hype" in this article, I ask you to listen "fully" to his talks, which are widely available & have been for over a DECADE. Don't fall into the trap of this article & make someone guilty by extracting snippits of 2hr lectures & edit them so much so that the interpretation is completely misinterpreted.

The deobandis aren't an "extremist" organisation. There'is no head leader & the "UK masjids/madressahs" have no network. It's as if the media are makingout they are "terror cells". Come on, wake up !!!

It's like another "Iraq has Wapons of Mass Destruction" "We have intelligence to back this" . And what happened on that incident.....nothing...NO weapons. The world was fooled.

Riyadhul Haq is no danger

Shabir, Leicester, UK

Deportation of potential jihadis is a complicated issue. First of all: islamofascism is like a disease, a viruse, and the terrorist is a sick person. Hence deporting extremists is only a shorterm solution, since that virus will spread elsewhere and come back in another form. This is reality, we live in a globalized world. Secondly; Which country will accept them? zThe countries your talkin about has their own problems and will certainly be reluctant on importing more trouble. And even f they will, the legel process is long and expensive.

The best solution as I see it, is building "un-radicalization" facilities, in remote, sparsley populated areas. These are not Guantanamo Bay type of prisons or camps, but a guarded communitiy where potential terrorists stay put until psychologists declare them sane. Until that they can live almost a normal life but they don't have the freedom to spread hate and promote death and destruction.This is a tough solution, but these people are like nazis

Mikael, Stockholm, Sweden

Its like the 2 minute hit and run that was portrayed by 'Undercover Mosques', disgraceful. To understand a 'one liners' you have to understand the whole 5 hour speech that was given by the speaker. If a pastor at a church says 'do not delve in the mainstream society as this is Satan's work and follow the path of Jesus', then what is wrong with this statement? wasn't it Religion that got us this far from the negative times of our past?...Just because a speaker says 'do not lay about with Christians' doesn't mean 'kill them'...again its like the Pope saying 'Islam is a Bloody religion so stay clear of them', which everyone is entitled to an opinion...but lets look at the raw facts, Christianity has got a Bloody History too....so lets not blow something out of Proportion, which will lead to more extremism especially for the ones that are going to cornered, and we know what happens to a rat when its cornered, it jumps at you! by far this is Islamophobia. peace.

Joynal, Birmingham, UK

The quaran is the word of god whether you like it or whether you dont. It can be proven with modern science but the ignorant will not spend the time to learn.

. Pornography , Gambling, Disrespect to parents and mankind , Illicit sexual relations , Alcoholism ,Child Abuse , Drugs are prevalent in society and those involved is such things are ignorant to the commands of god.

If the reader carefully considers whom is extreme with sincerity they will conclude that it is those that ignore the code of god and make problems for people . We all have a responsibility to god as it is gods planet and not an atom is owned by anyone.Thus the statement such as it is our country is made by the foolish ignorant and the deaf and dumb and blind.

The time in our life is a test for the hereafter and we will all be accountable to god. It is high time that respect be shown to the creator. We are all the children of Adam and Eve and should learn about god and what gods commandments are .

im, leicester, uk

The last thing the world needs is more religion. Listen to these people! They want to wage a war on an entire civilization because they do not follow the same invisible man as they do. The only cure for this sort of thing is education and laws that prevent religious organizations from gaining too much power.

Why do people feel they need these archaic superstitions? Why not try cracking a science or history book instead? Education is the true key to enlightenment. Think, do not believe. Please.

William, Euless, Texas, United States

You fools who kneejerk this as just a hate-piece had better start studying Islam for yourselves. This is not radical, not fundamentalist, not militant, not hardline; this is Islam as it really is.

Clay Marley, Phoenix, USA

Paul Owen made an amazing point.

"if you believe that your religion is the one true religion how can you then show respect for other religions? It's a logical impossibility. Thus we get the bitterness, rancour and eventual violence we are seeing."

I commend you for such a DEEP statement.

But after you have made that statement, I want you to ask yourself, why is all of this chaos surrounding ISLAM.

And for everybody else, always ask yourself how CREDIBLE is the information you are receiving, whether from the paper, tv internet...the question is how credible is it.

Islam is not a religion people, Its a way of life. In Islam, life is about struggle. A poor man has his struggle and a rich man has his struggle. Islam is about who you turn to for ease, and relief from struggle, and who you thank once it has been relieved.

Abdullah, WILMINGTON, DE, USA

i dont care what university you came out of, or what kinda degree you got. what we all need is education. we need to create a system that will educate and elevate the true colours of islam.

p.s no matter who rules this world, it will never be peaceful again. peace ended when the last kalifa died.

naima, seattle, usa

All you people have one thing in common, you try and use your intelect against divine revalation. The whole world has watched centuries of your violence and debauchery based on freethinking principles and a ardent desire to plunder each others wealth and resources, never even contemplating death and the reality of the life to come. You may detract and argue all you like but this religion is coming to liberate the hearts of mankind from the slavery of materialism and a life of carnal desires and oppresion. Women all over the world are embracing Islaam, donning bthe veil you hate so much. Let me tell you straight, if youve got a problem, look the other way and keep it to yourself.

Tariq Ziyad, Birmingham, United Kingdom

There is no religion in the world that agrees perfectly with the man-made personal values of 21st century Britain. So if you wish to deport Islamic lecturers because Islam forbids music, then you will have to deport Sikh lecturers because Sikhism forbids alcohol (or do you really think you can go without that pint?), Hindu lecturers because they forbid the eating of beef (no more Big Macs), Buddhist lecturers because they forbid materialism. Who will be left, except the atheists? But they forbid believing in God so will you deport them too?

Abu Khadijah Ali, Leicester, Leicestershire

islam is a peacefull religion, not spread by the sword but the Characteristics, if islam was as it is being Portrayed then why is it the fastest growing religion in the world? we have to study islam for ourselves. we cannot let the world decide for us.

abdullah, cardiff, uk

If those who profess to follow hard-liners of Islam and they hate non-Muslims, why did they leave their homeland and to to Britain or the United States? If their religion is so great and their countries, then let them return to their homeland! Let them go back to the country of their religion and practice and leave the rest of us alone. They can't even get alone with others of their own religion. Look at how the Shiite's , the Sunni's and the Kurds fight amongst each other. Then there is the sects that have broken off from mainline Islam and think they own the world. Britain is having the same problems with people who get Visas to visit and out-stay their time, just like the Hispanics in the USA. They have no education, can't get a job, then turn to drugs, and other illegal activities, then after arrested, get free legal representation and all the fee social services help. Let a single, white female in need of help ask and they are turned down.

Mikki, Afton, Iowa, USA

Even a cursory study of the foundation of Islam reveals that Western European governments have foolishly tolerated it. Anyone who seriously wants to follow (or study) a religion will surely have to examine it's foundation. The PC brigade in the West have either failed to do this or have been reluctant to speak about it because of the potentially adverse reaction from Islamists. African and Asian Non-Muslims who have suffered deadly, persistent Islamic violence are not so lily-livered. The best form of Islam (to which any serious adherent will return) was practiced by Muhammad and his immediate followers. It yielded a lot of violence towards Arabs, Jews and Christians. Violence was so endemic that within a few years after his death, Muslims were killing each other leading to the Sunni/Shia divide. Islam's violent root is still producing fruit and needs to be stemmed.

Bolaji, UK, UK

The old saying ``You give some people an inch and they'll take a mile'' comes to mind. I cannot believe how an intelligent modernized nation like Britain would allow this type of scum to walk all over the British people. I can guarantee it wouldn't happen here in America. If word ever got out that some sub-human pig (look at his picture in the article, oink oink !) like Monsieur Cul was preaching anti-American sermons on our own soil, well he wouldn't be doing it for very long. Somebody would simply cruise on home, grab their shotgun and that would be the end of Monsieur Cul. Oh, I'm so sorry!! Was that too violent for you ? Offend your sensitivities, does it ? Well if it does then apparently you've forgotten all about July 7. Fortuneately, we haven't forgotten September 11. If we ever do, then we deserve to be attacked again. Good luck to you all. From the way your spineless politicians are handling this thing, you're gonna need all the luck you can get.

M. Nolan, Schuylerville, NY , USA

What is particularly worrying about the spread of the Islamic religion in the UK is that its radical elements are the people who represent it most truly. Muhammad was above all a military warrior and a conqueror. A true Muslim will ultimately aim to convert the whole of the human race to Islam, that's what is meant by the phrase 'Islam is a religion of peace'. The only solution to the problem of Islamic extremism in the West is to remove any form of religion from every public institution. People should be allowed to practice their religion in private, as long as they are eighteen years of age or older. There should be a ban on underaged girls wearing the hijab, not only at school but anywhere at all. The NHS, the courts and any place where purely public matters are dealt with should be free from any religious symbols and regulations. What we need in Britain is to recognise that religion is a private and cultural pursuit that has nothing to do with our material welfare and human needs

Andre de Souza, London, UK

For 1400 years, islam has been at war with every other culture and religion on the planet. There is nothing new about jihad, or the theology that drives it. Mohammed led his followers in 70-odd battles after moving from mecca to Medina. When he and his mslims were victorious, the defeated Bedouin were given the choice of converting to islam or having their heads chopped off. After Mohammed died, the first Caliph had to fight a War of compulsion against people who had been forcibly converted. After that, islam spread through the Middle east and veyond through aggression and conquest.

Gareth, Cardiff,

Why should Hindus be classified with these people as Asians , is it just because they come from the same continent?

sarang, basildon, essex

- sarang - if u grew up in the UK you know a white person can rarely mention a specific race or religion without being called racist.
political correctness is how this problem came about

Daniel Lee 86, Melbourne , Australia

Its time the West took a look at its Christian past and revived its values. It is depressing to read of converts joining Islam, a heresy of Christianity. Any impartial observer of atheist governments that appeared in the 20 century, can see a trail of mass murder from the Soviet Union to Cambodia all the way to China un paralled in human history. This recent attraction to Islam is a response to the 20th Century failures of atheism and neo pagan socialism (aka Facism) and now the soul destroying aimless material secularism we call liberal democracy. Secularism creates deformed people and radically deformed societies, and in response we are getting radical Islam. The answer to this extremism is a return to the peaceful loving values of authentic Christianity.

Peter Doyle, Raleigh, NC USA

Winston Churchill said it best in 1899, "How dreadful are the curses which Mohamadism lays on its votaries.The effects are apparent in many countries, improvident habits, slovenly systems of agriculture, sluggish methods of commerce and insecurity of property exist wherever the followers of the Prophet rule or live. ... Individual Moslems may show splendid qualities, but the influence of the religion paralyses the social development of those who follow it. No stronger retrograde force exists in the world."

Bill Silver, Coral Gables, FL, USA

Himmler set up an S.S. Division of Moslims, the religion obviously lends itself to manipulation by rabid weasels of one sort or another. Perhaps its time to bring back the Knights Templar.

Brian Leslie White, Carmarthen, Wales

i really think about daobandis are of a modret movment which can be used in all area but the sect of beralwe are not of what the last prophe did. Re: Ul haq is not what the times have said really. they need more purification on there reserch.

moynul, stevenage, herts

One message to everyone reading this, listen to his speeches!! He (or Deobandi or Deobandi institutions) does not preach to hate, quite the opposite. The Times and the majority of the media do not reveal the full story ,and therefore this represents a distortion of the truth. Typical of the media to make these more headlines, sell newspapers, get more hits on their web sites and overall, more profit. How many times has this happened? Please approach a muslim in person and ask about Sheith Riyad ul Haq and his sermons and do not fall for this nonsence. How low can the media go??

Irfan, Preston, UK

what can i say all lies, if only everyone knew the truth about islam and the people and sect mentioned in this, yet media distorts the truth and manipulates it. it is sad to say many people absorb and belive the media without any research. all i can say islam teaches peace and love amonsgt all religions and cultures throughout the world if they dont then islam is not amonst them. the people mentioned having heard them they arre nothing like what this article says and it just makes me laugh reading it as i cant belive lies with no evidence can be published.very sad

Salim, leicester,

me and my tax paying family are finaly leaving this anti ENGLISH country,i am sick to death of living amongst non ENGLISH people,so i urge the rest of us to do the same before we get persecuted by our scotish government for being ENGLISH living in our ONCE great nation ENGLAND........

karl, birmingham,

as someone who has been to numerous lectures of shaikh riyaad ul haq i believe i speak for everyone who knoows him that he is one of the most tolerate and peaceful scholar alive and someone whom both muslims and non muslims can vastly benefit from. this article is pathetic, its taken one sentence out of a full hour lectures and presented them in a vile manner. SHAME ON YOU.

MOHAMMED KHAN, LONDON,

How can you say that the peace loving shaykh is inciting terrorism?
I am a revert to Islam and from a Hindu background, in fact my whole family are Hindu's would you believe, as are many of my ancestors for generations.
I have read and heard what the Shaykh has said, I don't see any incitement to religous hatred. Some of the words that you have supposedly transliterated from the lectures are wrong. Listen to the words carefully before you start posting them and interpreting them onto the net.
You can't pick out a few words from a speech and expect to make sense of it. If this is the case we are bound to take it out of context.
When you watch a movie do you watch a little snippet and say 'Hey we don't need to watch anymore, we get it'. Didn't think so!
One more thing I love my family very much although they are Hindu's and you people are 150% wrong on this one.
Oh the Word Jihadi, it means to struggle not to war, so look it up, don't just read paper and make assumptions

Hamza Abdur-Rahman, Staffs, United Kingdom

It is clear that most of the comment has been taken out of context. Why doesnt everyone concern conduct their own research. I am willing to contribite £100 for those who sincerely wishes to listen to the talks and sermons by Mr Haq. I can assure that never does he incite any hatred, if he did do you think Mr Haq would be doing what he is doing?

You will always get a group of people trying to dishonour someone like Shaykh Riyad, hatred does not start by a religious cleric by inciting killing and hatred. Real hatred starts when people are misled and someones respect and honour is brought to disrepute in a very derrogative manner. Thisgives birth to many assumers and haters of Islam.

Muslims have nothing to hide, please make effort to do your own research and save yourself from creating hatred in your own heart. No one tolerates hatred, this is not Islam. What you have read about Mr Haq is fabricated and conspired behind his back without any verification and ascertation

muhammad, Lancashire , UK

I advise all to listen to his thought-provoking lectures which sits firmly at the heart and sould of every individual, it strengthens moral fibre and increases community cohesion. I am a better person now than ever before, Sheikh Riyadh lectures has tought me to to look closely at myself through means of self rectification ensuring that I adhere to Islam by adhering BEYOND the laws of the land. I would not lie nor steal (exposed or otherwise) as my affairs are dealt with the Almighty directly. And all this is, as a direct result of Sheikh Riyadh-ul-Haq. As a highly qualified Software Consultant I mingle with people from all walks of life, the author of this report is greatly at fault and wholly one-sided. For example, it is incorrect to write 'Mr Ul Haq', it is either 'Riyadh ul Haq' or 'Riyadh', just goes to show Mr Andrews half hearted research or should I use Mr Rew - doh!!

Abu Khawlah, Leicester, UK

To Linda Heywood

to call another muslim a hippocrite is unislamic, you say you don't need a man to teach you islam, your whole religon of Islam is based on a man's (saw) word which was revealed to him in the form of the Qur'an.
Its these sort of comments and thinking which seperate not only the muslims but the whole of the UK, why do you think this article was printed? Try to understand before producing articles and blogs.

Hamza Abdur-Rahman, Staffs, United Kingdom

Deobandis are Problems of Sunni Muslimseverywhere in the World . These People have brought abd name to islam by their borrowed ideology from Saudi arab .
World need to recognize the True Islam and Majority sunni Muslims.

Shahnawaz Warsi, Delhi, India

We have more traitors in our country than at any time in our history. And where is the leadership?

Akbar, Cambridge, UK

The great Winston Churchill must turning in his grave...

William, London,

The war on terror is not against a country it is with Islamic Jihadist. Wake up England!

Debra, Claremore, Oklahoma

Com'n everyone ,just try to have your own research about The Islam and The holy Quran, The Islam is religion of peace and brotherhood, never ever the islam preaching for hateful Or any kind of sedition, I'm muslim and i'm married with a woman who converted to Islam, My wife was Christians and she never believed in that the islam is religion of sedition before she converted to the islam, and this kind of people like this (Imam) they're completly wrong, nobody can agree with him,only who really doesn't know (THE FACT OF THE ISLAM)

Adel Bashir, fray bentos, Uruguay

How can one judge a man in his entirety from one small article? How well does Andrew Norfolk know this man? His views on Riyadh ul Haq appear to be one-sided. He and the media continue to mislead the general public with facts, by manipualting the truth to achieve there own agenda. Those who choose to believe Andrew Norfolk and not question him, need to re-think there position on all of this. One can only understand a man from spending time with him. Perhaps people who are just constantly attacking him should resort to other ways of learning and understanding his teachings. For example, listen to his talks in a collective manner, and not just those which may fortify your hatred for Islam. Don’t rely on the media for the whole truth.

Marshall Floyd, Coventry, UK

As a self professed moderate white middle class person the tone of the comments on here read like something out of the 19th or 20th century which is distinctly worrying.

The idea that the UK is some iron clad and static entity is both false and dangerous because it is always used to defend religious bigotry. It seems that we are reverting back to the era of popish plots and suspect loyalties; I just hope we keep the facists far enough at bay to stop a return to the stakes!

As for Islam there are internal debates that are being had and are ongoing. Sadly the media seems more content to whip up histeria in the public interest rather than report (the boring) reality of the Islam of the majority of the young people in this country!

John, london,

Dear readers of the Times…. I would just like to say please, please and please listen to Sheykhs lectures and audio tapes before making any assumption over this noble person.

Ask yourself this question? Isn’t it funny how some people are partaking in forwarding negative views against Shaykh and by GOD not a single of them read or listened to any his talks?

I have been attending Shaykhs lectures for a number of years now, and have found NO fault with his teachings. In fact his teachings had encouraged me to distance myself away from having any kinds of hatred thoughts towards other people.

Mr ‘Andrew Norfolk’ is out of this world, a dangerous man whose sole purpose is to incite hatred into people’s hearts. Surely he is looking for a promotion through his deceitful allegation (may God forgive him). Men like him needs to be arrested and eradicated from position of power to protect the innocent people so they may live harmoniously together.

Ahmed, Birimingham, England

I fear for my gandchildrens life,our goverments are weak not one will dare to speak out at these islamic tyrants, they are allowed to preach death and destruction to us in our own country. For gods sake lets start to say enough is enough and get them out! Who are these do gooders human righters!? please can we have names and faces to these law makers, who make up human rights laws for these kinda tyrants, western haters?? and a completly differant one for us! WHO are they.... OOHHH could they be muslim?! Laws for the foreigners and a law for us Brits, GOD help us.

jan, yorks, uk

If we continue to allow this teaching and radicalisation of our Moslem population we will have in about 7-10 years time all of the violence and bombing that we see and hear about in Iraq.

Islam wants the world to be at peace, not peace and goodwill as preached by chritianity, but the oppression of Islam obtained by the gun and the bomb.

If they hate the west so much, they can return to their country of origin and go back to living in tents and mud brick buildings and we won't visit them. We can build a wall around them and forget about them.

Osiris, Leeds, Yorkshire

Can someone give me a projection for how history may unfold from this moment without bloodshed and tears?

Muslims: For goodness sake, time is running out for you to sort yourselves out so that you can actually live within western society.

Even if it's just 10 or 15% who wish to 'talebanise' and segregate themselves, don't you see that this will come to affect all of us, but you worst of all?

If you don't wish to live in a liberal western civilisation, then please, for all of us - non muslim and 'integrationist' muslims alike, leave the country and emigrate to Saudi or some other islamic nirvanah.

The people of this country might have been totally clueless about the problem for the last 30 years and they might still be dulled by 'PC', but when they do finally see the scale of the problem, it is going to get out of control very quickly.

Andy, London,

Story after story from England reveals a once proud country voluntarily concealing its flag, its patron saint, its culture, language and history, all in a cowardly attempt to appease those who cannot be appeased.

Those preaching violence and hatred must be held to account for their words and actions.

I pray that England wakes up.

Mark, Chicago, Illinois, USA

Talk is cheap and views opinionated by perceptions from the media have no value. As for the radicals, when someone is pushed to limits from the incompetence of those governed by them locally, nationally, internationally, then they resort to making statements in insane ways.

Having read earlier comments, I’d love to see how followers of a religion are ousted from this country.

As for Sheik Riyadh ul Haq, I think he is a god send and many will do well to follow his example.

Hussain, London,

Omid, Dubai - you can do what you like in Dubai for as long as like, but don't bother doing it here.
Bin Laden a "Noble and civilised character"? "Giving one's life to bring Justice"? Oh, sure!
And when you can prove there's a "God", perhaps you could explain how you did it.

Dave, Southampton, UK

Why does everybody learn things from the Media. I call you fools for thinking Islam is from what you see on the Media. Go to Shaykh Riyadul Haqs lectures and learn for yourselves. Get your self off youre sofas and learn the truth.

Muhammad Rahman, London, UK

Folks, we have more important things to do, like finding those weapons of mass destructions in Iraq.

stanzler, ny, usa

In my experienc eof reading Muslim apologists I'd want a second opinion on the validity of the label Deobandi, besides the poster above - from a non-Muslim or an ex-Muslim. A Muslim who hands out the usual accusations of hatred and bigotry and calls for peace and love without regretting or even mentioning the myriad acts of violence committed in the name of his religion in recent years, is, quite frankly, a man whose word is not to be trusted.

wally greeninker, newport, gwent, UK

Whether you are Jewish, Christian or Muslim, Islam will never convert the entire world by violence. America won't tolerate another 9/11 and neither should any other country. I suggest England quit funding at home education of any violence wielding sect. This Deobandis sect who speak of blood shed in the name of Allah. Personally, thinking of a God who is so full of hate and rage is a God I'd rather not think of meeting. How many Jews and Christians call for their members to commit suicide and take those within range of their body bombing with them? And yes, the Jews thrived when Islam ruled but they were treated like second class citizens and Christians were killed. And you are so correct Mr. Petrov, Muslims have already decided but I chose not to think like Deobandis and I refuse to wear something that looks like a phone booth because I am a woman. We all need to be intolerant of those propagating violence just because we don't believe as they do. No football, no chess? Think not.

Anita, San Diego, USA

EXTREME = Binge drinking
EXTREME = Hooliganism & mob culture
EXTREME = Teenage pregnancy
EXTREME = High crimes
EXTREME = Breakdown of family structure and moral values
EXTREME = Bombing people in the name of freedom, democracy and human rights

-->
MODERATE = No intoxicants
MODERATE = No sex before marriage --> healthy family life
MODERATE = Noble & civilized character
MODERATE = 'Giving one's life' to bring Justice
MODERATE = Serving God and people
MODERATE = Oppose the disbelievers in God

Don’t Panic!
I’m Islamic!

Peace!

Omid, Dubai,

Please stop villifying the most peaceful and tolerant religion on earth, which is islam. These statements are all taken out of context and misinterpreted because your thoughts processes are tainted with islamophobia. Please learn about islam from the right sources and turn off the TV a little bit. The most prosperous time for jews was under islamic rule (read about muslim in andalucia)

farima, Rochester,

My Dear Brainwashed Tariq, It is apparent that you attend one of these radical professing mosques. I'll go real slow so even you can understand...Isalm is not the problem. It is the radical fundamentalists that have perverted your religion, and you, to barbaric acts of eveil that will be repaid by the one true God. the god of the Bible (or as you say the "book"). Ismail, if you actually believe and feel whatyou say...STAND UP and be counted and defeat these dark-ages radicals who desire to rule the world with sharia law.

Malc, New York, USA

Even when Islam isn't being used to sponsor hatred, intolerance and war it still has the potential to turn this way at any time. Look at the way "moderate" Turkey and Malaysia are going - and one of these is a future EU state! Islam is simply incompatible with Western culture. One day we will have to choose, but mst Muslims have alredy decided.

Stefan Petrov, London, UK

From the crusaders to current none Musilm leaders, the fight against Islam continues, yet the messege of failur has not been recognised.

Is it not time you None Muslims remind youselfe that Islam is the true and final religion, and you will never defeat the word of Allah.

What have you learnt? The weapons of MASS DISTRUCTION IS YOU THE NONE BELEAVERS....

Aurangzieb , Nuneaton , UK

I have just been listening to the home secretary, Jackie Smith, where Andrew Marr asked about this problem. Amazingly it was a 30 second question & answer, ' our methods are working' she said !
Frankly I feel this whole thing is a powder keg, when I hear the words ' hearts & minds' it confirms how far off the government is on this problem.
Trying to get Muslims to change their minds on all they have been brought up with is insulting to them & a waste of time for us.
I feel strongly that any Imams preaching like the ones now exposed should without doubt be deported, no second chances, no PC rules applied, if Imams wants Sharia law , don't come to England.
No more Mosques should be built, minarettes silenced & no more Korans in schools, no faith schools.
Schools should deffinitely be secular.
Any brain washing of religion can be done at home not in school.
Islam conflicts with our way of life, Muslims should stop flaunting their dress & constant disappoval, if you don't like it leave

Maggie Millington, Brittany , France

I've seen repeated comments on this board expressing consternation as to why these folks would choose to live in the west if they find its so abominable and suggesting they might emmigrate to an Islamic paradise of their choice. But that won't happen . . and the reason why is expressed quite clearly in another article published today in TimesOnline by Andrew Norfolk, and I quote:
___________________

"Justice Muhammad Taqi Usmani argues that Muslims should live peacefully in countries such as Britain, where they have the freedom to practise Islam, only until they gain enough power to engage in battle.
His views explode the myth that the creed of offensive, expansionist jihad represents a distortion of traditional Islamic thinking. "
____________________________
They will not leave because they are required to expand the borders of Dar al Islam by imposing Islamic law on the populace.

It's just that simple.

Omar, Plains,

First of all Deobandi is not a 'sect' it is a word derived from the name of a city in India called Deoband. That city has an old and famous religious seminary which over the years must have trained thousands of scholars, many of whom started their own seminaries in different parts of the world. If you take an aggregate of total number of scholars produced by all these seminaries combined then that number must be in hundreds of thousands if not millions. Just quoting one person out of all the scholar and then to paint everyone with the same brush should not be called an 'investigative report'.

Secondly, if an Oxford-educated person starts his own school than the new school would not be called an Oxfordian school. Similarly, these seminaries started by Deoband-trained scholars should not be called Deobandi madrassas. The original Deoband seminary has no control over these other seminaries.

Thirdly, let us all (including the media) spread love and peace instead of hatred and bigotry.

Manzerm, Boston, USA

So yet again we are trying to twist people's words and create more divisions and mistrust of yet another religious group. Riyadh Ul Haq is a very decent, intelligent and thoughtful person who strives to apply his skills and knowledge in the best way possible. Shame on us for being so ignorant and blindly believing these newspapers who are only out to increase their sales. Why can't we focus on the millions dead in Iraq which only happened because a few liars said the words "weapons of mass destruction". What did Afghanistan do to derserve a state terrorist attack? Instead of dealing with issues, we bash Islam, the only logical and proven religion in the world, with countless followers (all of which could not possibly be terrorists). Funny that we didn't have such a religiously biased media when dealing with the IRA terrorism issue.

Zubayr, Birmingham, UK

It is a total an utter lie against Shaykh Riyadh Ul-Haq. I've never met such a peaceful, calm and collective person. In no way has he ever incited racial or religous hatred.
I have read and listened to the so called transliterated texts in the papers. You have definitley taken it out of context and taken snippets out of a lecture and placed it into a paper.
You would have to listen to whole speech to understand the context of the speech. When you watch a movie would you just watch a small snippet and say 'Hey we know what its all about, we get it' and stop watching the Movie? Didn't think so. You can't take little bits of a lecture and expect to understand it, obviously it wouldn't sound right.
The articles suggested that Hindus are also ridiculed, well get this I am from a massive family of all Hindus and embraced Islam many many years ago. I have listened to the lectures and they don't suggest any religious hatred. The papers are 1million% wrong on this one.......Peace

Hamza Abdur-Rahman, Staffs, United Kingdom

I am one who was converted by this man the only reason i came to terms with islam is with the words of peace as Scholar riyadh has said the mercy of god is far more greater than many men or anyone you can think of. He did not express any hate towards anyone in his speechs nor did he not mention any form of hate towards the west. However he has said their are many current issues that revalte around the east and god help all of us (does this sound anything like a man who would create destruction as he wants god to help all). We are all aware of the easts problem through media but never have i such heard words of violence or any form of conflict against anyone.

Steven Arkwright, Kent,

After reading this article I am gob smacked, I mean this is the furthest one can go away from the truth. Obviously this is an unfair and an indecent attack on a man or a group that has endeavored to enlighten the youths of today to lead a just and a fruitful life by realizing their objective in life which is to please their creator, and for those speculative people it means to be just and kind to all human beings whatever their creed or color. I would also encourage people to buy Riyadh ul haq’s audio tapes and CDs to find out for themselves if he is a threat to this country or an exemplary role model for the youths and Muslims.

Asad, Bedforshire, UK

congratulations to Andrew Norfolk evidently he is an expert in cut and paste. Ihave personly known riaz-ul haq for a long time and heard many of his speeches. mr norfolk has gone through hundreds of his speechees and has distorted his words.once again this seems a greater campain to discredit the peaceful religon of islam. well done!

Z TAYLOR, LEICESTER, UK

Dear readers of the Times... I would just like to say that I have been listening to Shaykhs lectures in audio and attending his seminars for a while now and have not heard him say anything harmful to any sects nor people of different faith, these are false allegations made by the media and they have taken things out of context, which they are very well known for. The Shaykh is a well respected person and has a vast knowledge of the Hadith and Quran. I would kindly suggest people to listen to his lectures and attend his seminars before making any conclusions to his character.

Muhammad, Burnley, United Kingdom

I cannot personally see what relevance any religion has in present day society. Society has been evolving and developing rapidly in the UK, whereas religions evolve and develop at about the rate of continental drift, or not at all in the cases of Catholicism and Islam. It follows that religions will always be centuries out of date, and their dogma therefore of no practical use in our time. We have the law to deal with differences between right and wrong, and we obviously need to use it.

Dave, Southampton, UK

Shiek Riyadhul Haque is a very fine person anyone who have met him will have the same view.The media always make false allegations just to make up a good story and to confuse people why do you have good person look bad.

Saif uddin, wednesbury, west midlands

As an English convert to Islam, I find the criteria of the Deobandi contradictory to the instructions from God in the Quran. Islam, Submission is between ones soul and its creator. My faith and how I chose to follow Islam, Submission has nothing whatsoever to do with the Deobandi or anyone else. God says He gave us ears, eyes and brains and as individuals we should use what we have been given to decided for ourselves. We do not need any man to teach us faith. Faith comes from God and He will be judge over all of us. So maybe the Deobandi would do well to remember that God is in control of everything. God doesn't need their brutal intervention to bring people to Islam. Down with the Deobandi I say. Ungrateful hypocrites. I have God on my side too!

Linda Heywood, London, England

England has seen better days.

RM, New York, USA

It is time to make a stand before it is too late and we have a re run of Germany in the 1930's.

If you want a country that can live togeather, get on with each other, have various religons, work togeather then we need to take radicalisim in hand NOW!!

Otherwise all it will take is some carismatic hard liner of the far right to cause further problems. Then I ask my self who will
the "British" follow when there backs are against the wall?

So come on every one no matter if you are Muslim, Jewish, Christian, or what ever faith let's pull togeather before it is all too late, because that time may be sooner than you realise.

Smith, farnham, surrey

Islam - the ONLY truth!? This intolerance is one reason for all these problems.

Kannt, Monaco,

To All
Its easy to take a little from here and a little from there to distort the truth. I know sheikh Riyadhul Haq personally he is a good man out to do good and can do a lot of good to society in general if used in the correct manner.

Abu Yusuf, dewsbury, UK

You make your own terrorists by labeling the innocent in a world that has gone mad due to america's paranoia. Justice is not a word you people seem to understand how blind are you to whats happening to the world. open your eyes islam is not the enemy.

Shinta Oliman, Mutrailanga,

Dear readers, the ’Haq’ you’re on about, stands for truth, now to put things in perspective this absurd idea that Shaykh Riyad Ul Haq is preaching extremism is far from the truth, but rather tolerance, dignity and a code of behaviour which is enlightening society.

Today we are all facing unprecedented influences and encroachment in our lives, not to mention the degradation of communities and human values. I would sincerely advise all readers to listen to his talks or to attend his seminars before conceiving premature conclusions

A. Islam, Birmingham, England

The way of Islam is a slow but sure one. They are patient and determined. As they radicalize their growing following, they increase their numbers through immigration and larger families. Western Europe is in the process of changing, sitting on the sidelines and watching while the Islamic fundamentalists grow ever stronger.

Doug, New Orleans, USA

To Barry Holroyd
You dont know much & confused matters. The verse you quoted was specifically directed at PAGANS, the arab idol worshippers, who wanted to destroy the early muslims. Christians & Jews & other faiths like sabeans & hanifs are not pagans.
Secondly, that verse you say cancelled the previous verses is what extremists claim but its for their twisted goals to fool ignorant people. That verse does not abrogate previous verses that ordered tolerance & compassion.
You quote a site on the net, these sites are misleading, you are way out of your depth.

s ahmed, cairo,

Some people think right is wrong, and wrong is right. I fully support Shaykh Riyadhul Haq and I dont believe he made such comments without there being explanations.

Abdur Rahman, London, UK

When the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) is so very kind that when Mecca fell to Muslims and the Holy Prophet entered the city victorious, all those who had treated him and his followers with cruelty received his free pardon, without asking for it. Thirteen years of persecution were forgiven and forgotten in one single moment. A True God (or His messenger) would not have the need to ask for persecution/compassion!
These are just 2 examples of compassion and peace that Islam sets forth... Bit likeJesus really, when he embarked on forgiveveness, starting with Judas.

Honestly, don't you think it is about time the British Council of Muslims and other related bodies bodies showed some backbone and show which side they are on? They are so cagey (AND OLD), aided by our own politicians but I do get the feeling we are dealing with an honourable lot, desperately trying, but disasterously failing to control reality in the UK. Don't blame them - just employ younger sensible people/politicians etc.

LH, Warminster,

When will the British people finally realize that those who are responsible for making the laws no longer believe in "nationhood?"

Your leaders equate love of country with jingoism. They regard the past as the repository of error and your proud history as nothing more than a shameful chronicle of oppression.

They're glad that Britain will soon be no more.

Unlimited immigration of alien elements who are hostile to your traditions is a means to an end, the end of your autonomy as a people.

Prime Director, Sacramento, Northern Californa

Having a mother who originates from the deobandi sect and a father who originates from the Barelwi sect, Having learnt about both sects, none preach violence and the values are very much the same. Henceforth the conclusion I come to as many young muslims that we are simply muslims- followers of peace , not followers of any sect. It is the older generation who have one foot in the grave, that have made the sects, due to power hungry struggles.But most muslims are simply muslims -thats it. As a beautiful women who covers her hair- I would also like to add that I started to wear it because I thought my voice,opinion,strength & personality was more important.Just as Mary, mother of Jesus was not oppressed for wearing the clothes she did, niether are we, so quit the pretence concern,people are just upset that they don't get to ogle at us.As a feminist ,I find many negative aspects of society (anorexia, bulimia, bullying,low self confidence, pride) to be eliminated through wearing the scarf

ANISA, LONDON, UK

Khateeb, islam means "submission". Why don't YOU take a closer look at islam.

David, Tampa, Florida, USA

The comments by Abu Musa, from Manchester, make me furious! They say, ' Britain just needs to put up with it. ' Why should we put up with people coming to this country and hating us and trying to destroy us? I will vote for any politician who has the guts to round up every last one of them and deports them!

Bernadette Collins, Kent, England

Who was the ignorant naive fool whose idea it was to allow Muslim hordes to invade Britain when they hate us and many want us to die?

Angry British Citizen, London, England

I do not understand radical Muslims wanting to live in a Western country if they loathe Western culture and values. Why wouldn't they want to stay in their country of origin where the values are similar to theirs? Just once I wish somebody would answer that question. It's the same with language. If I wanted to live in France or Italy etc, the first thing I would want to do is learn the language. That doesn't seem to be the case here in the U.S.

E Berg, La Crosse, USA

Dan, Oxford. Whats your problem? Ur notes seem to suggest that your views are to the right and not mainstream. You have no knowledge of the subject matter. Its pathetic what do you know about the faith ISLAM. You read an article and then want to debate..This has been blown out of proportion..Lets face it one minuite the extremists are flooding in from overseas so therefore the UK needs to ban overseas preachers and have homegrown imams. Now all of a sudden the homegrowm ones are radical therefore we will have to go for the ones that are deaf and dumb?....Anyway how does one become radical? do you become radical for speaking the truth or expressing an opinion that is different to the rest. What happenned to freedom of speech...

Abdul, Birmingham, UK

Why do the readers of The Times who I regard to be intellectual now go down the road of immigration and deportation. How can you deport people who have a different opinion to you? How was this glorious nation built? On the back of BME communities who fought in world wars for this nation? How many muslims fought in world wars? this is a pathetic debate..I have no problem with Mr Haq he is entitiled to his views? Has anyone asked why oppression exists in palestine? Why is their double standards when dealing with muslim countries? I have a lot of muslim friends and the religion preaches love, tolerance and peace. How many UN resolutions has Israel disobeyed? We are humans we have different likes and dislikes..i personally hate music and can't stand it how is this making you extreme?...I support my local football team and hate our derby rivals in the city does this make me extreme...lets wake up and get real

Danial, Birmingham, UK

Firstly it appears many posters on here are simply not reading the lectures in the first place, and amongst the muslim posters not many actually even understand the meaning of "deobandis" "wahhabis" "barelvis". They arent even "sects".The crazy things is any differences in opinion between them have nothing to do with matters talked about in this article.
The worst comments are just the silly ones that jump in with no relevance to the article just the standard hate mail that creeps in to all these forumns.

Ilyas, London, UK

Has no one also thought that- hey wait a minute the mosques have been around for years and years, and no attacks have occured previously. The attacks have only been started over the last few years and is not due to sudden brainwashing- give the youth abit more credit, what do you think we are? The older generation such as yourselves,that believe everything which is shown and read to you?

But hey? you know what it does coincide with the so called war on terror, which is wasting my taxes year after year, for a cause I don't give a toss about(again another stupid preliminary, power hungry cause) and the only thing it has given me is a feeling of insecurity in the country i was born in(my country) due to hate stares and comments. I'd rather the money be spent on a sensible cause such as Africa or to combat the imminent & realistic changes which is harming us due to climate change. Thank you Andrews generation for giving my generation presents such as global disasters and oh yeah-Hatred

ANISA, LONDON, UK

There is one and only one reason for this investagation by the times, and that is to STOP Blairs £1m funding to boost Islamic studies at UK universities. Native British people are to smart and will not buy into this propaganda. In ALL the mosques where i have visited, we were clearly told to respect and obey British laws/people.

Mohammed, London, UK

Interesting ..... are we fighting the terrorism war in the wrong country?

Time we woke up and started complaining but then that would be racist wouldn't it?

I'm looking forward to Sunday when the local BNP are reading the sermon at the local church, but then he might get arrested might he?

JD, London,

All peace loving Muslims should focus their efforts to convince the true image of Islam to the those who have hijacked their religion, telling non-muslims that Islam is a peaceful religion is pointless, because it doesn't matter what we think, we are not threatening anybody, non muslims are not the problem here, the terrorist are.

Aa far as cynical distractions like American action in Iraq under the spurious cover of concern for Iraqis, where was this when Saddam was tormenting and killing his people, where is it for Darfur, where is it for Iran? I think Muslims should have a dialogue within themselves where the root of the problem lies rather than coming on forums and talking about peaceful religion.

Ronald, Hendon, UK

When will our government wake up to the damage that these arrogant supremacists and hate-mongers are doing?

Many ordinary people are heartily sick of Islamofascism, and cannot undertsand the spineless attitude of the establishment.

Thank you for printing this article. Now how about a sustained journalistic campaign to pressure our leaders to take action?

Andy Gill, London,

Let's face it, our policy-makers have singularly failed to recognise their part in the discipline problems in our schools, and the social problems centred around increasing sections of our younger people. Does anybody really think they're capable of placing aside their politically correct notions of society and integration, to actually recognise the level of threat posed by self-styled islamic fundamentalists undermining our security, usually whilst scrounging large amounts in benefits and free housing from those they purport to despise so much.

These hypocrits and terrorist sympathisers are not representative of the majority of