MP Tahir Ali Calls for Blasphemy Law in UK

Labour MP Tahir Ali has prompted significant debate in the UK Parliament by advocating for the introduction of blasphemy laws to protect religious texts and figures revered in Abrahamic religions. During Prime Minister’s Questions, he linked his proposal to the ongoing Islamophobia Awareness Month and referenced a UN Human Rights Council resolution condemning the desecration of religious texts. Prime Minister Keir Starmer acknowledged the importance of addressing hatred but did not commit to specific legislation, highlighting the tension between protecting religious sentiments and upholding free speech. Critics, including the National Secular Society, have expressed concerns that reintroducing blasphemy laws could undermine democratic values. This proposal follows a notable rise in anti-Muslim incidents in the UK, intensified by recent geopolitical events. The discussion reflects broader European trends regarding religious protections amid concerns over free expression.