We Muslims are now guilty until proven innocent

Of around 1,200 arrested under the Terrorism Act, just 41 have been convicted
Published: 30 July 2007

Since the al-Qa'ida attacks in 2001, Muslims living in Western countries have been forced into a pen of collective blame and pre-emptive culpability, including those who are most loyal. We are guilty unless proven innocent, a reversal of natural justice, but who cares? The net has to be thrown wide, and we understand that. But not why every time Muslims under suspicion are rounded up, the media goes berserk, slapping pictures across the pages, as if there is no need for due process. And when most of them are freed, the public is not told. Of around 1,200 arrested under the Terrorism Act, 41 have been convicted of terrorism offences and 183 of other crimes. About 700 have been released without charge. It is the way things have to be, and there is no point in raising objections. We must know our constrained place in these difficult times. continue...