Q and A: Mahmud Sarwar Rathor

Published on Wednesday 2 July 2008 22:27

Mahmud Sarwar Rathor is trustee of the Scottish Islamic and Cultural Centre and Dundee's Dura Street mosque. He believes criticism from some in Dundee's Muslim community over Tayside Police's use of a puppy in an advertising campaign will harm Scots-Islam relations.

Why do you think some members of the Muslim community, as Councillor Mohammed Asif claims, might find the image of a puppy offensive?

I don't believe anyone apart from Mr Asif finds the picture offensive. I've spoken to shopkeepers and members of my mosque, and no-one agrees with him. This is not an issue as far as the Muslim community is concerned.

How do you believe dogs are viewed by moderate Muslims in Scotland?

Dogs can be viewed as unclean by Muslims, but that does not mean people hate the animals.

We do not allow dogs in mosques, but personally, I had a dog when I lived in Pakistan. This puppy is a harmless little thing, and we know Britain is a place where people love animals.

The fact it was a picture makes it more ridiculous to say it was offensive. Muslim shopkeepers sell dog food with pictures of animals on it.

Do you think it was right for Tayside Police to issue an apology?

They shouldn't have had to. The issue should never have been raised. This has been blown out of proportion and made controversial.

What did you think of the coverage of the story?

Mr Asif should not have spoken to the press and media claiming to be a community representative. He should have thought before trying to claim his own views are shared by other people.

Do you think this kind of story could be harmful to attempts to integrate cultures and communities in Scotland?

It is very, very damaging. Muslims try to respect other cultures and customs so other people respect theirs, and this story will not help that. We are Muslim and Scottish, part of both communities.