 or desecrating the Holy Qur’an, describing such acts){kind=link}
By Fatima Mukhtar
Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced a strong stance against anyone found insulting Prophet Muhammad (SAW) or desecrating the Holy Qur’an, describing such acts as “a grave crime” under Russian law.
Putin made the declaration during his visit to the historic Juma Mosque in Derbent, Dagestan, where he emphasized that the Qur’an is a sacred book that must be respected not only by Muslims but by everyone living in Russia.
“The Holy Qur’an is sacred for Muslims, and it should be sacred for everyone else. In our country, disrespecting it is a crime — according to both the Constitution and Article 282 of the Russian Criminal Code,” Putin said.
The Russian leader’s comments came amid rising global concern over incidents of Qur’an burning in parts of Europe. Putin stated firmly that such “shameful and provocative actions” have no place in Russia, adding that his government will ensure that those who insult religious values face the full weight of the law.
Official reports confirmed that Russia already criminalizes acts that incite religious hatred or insult sacred symbols. Recently, a man in Chechnya was sentenced to three and a half years in prison after being found guilty of burning a copy of the Qur’an, a clear signal that the law is being strictly enforced.
This move has been widely praised by Islamic scholars and organizations around the world, who view it as a major step toward protecting religious harmony and respecting the beliefs of Muslims in Russia and beyond.
With this declaration, Putin has positioned Russia as one of the few European nations taking firm legal action against blasphemy and religious desecration, sending a message that tolerance and respect for all faiths remain essential in a diverse society.
About The Author
