Mobs in Pakistan burn effigy of the Queen and the Union Jack. Photo courtesy of Yahoo News (UK)
YAHOO NEWS: ISLAMABAD (AFP) - Islamic hardliners in Pakistan burned an effigy of Queen Elizabeth as senators Tuesday joined mounting calls for London to withdraw Salman Rushdie's knighthood.
The senate approved a unanimous resolution demanding London axe the honour bestowed Saturday to the controversial author of the "blasphemous" book "The Satanic Verses."
It came a day after Religious Affairs Minister Ijaz-ul-Haq said the award for Rushdie justified suicide attacks, although he later withdrew the remarks, saying he meant it could increase terrorism.
The senate resolution carried by the official Associated Press of Pakistan "demands that the knighthood conferred on Salman Rushdie be withdrawn."
It said the chamber "expressed its annoyance over blatant disregard for the sentiments of the Muslims by the British government by awarding (a) knighthood to Salman Rushdie, who committed blasphemy against the Holy Prophet." Pakistani mob burns queen's effigy in Rushdie protest (more) By Danny Kemp
Le Figaro:
Rushdie : Londres proteste auprès d'Islamabad
Mark Alexander
