This is with reference to the article “Criminalizing hate speech” (June 21) by Rasheed Abou-Alsamh. I do agree with the views expressed by the writer and understand his disappointment as well. I believe that the Shoura Council made a rational decision by not discussing the issue of criminalizing hate speech. Sometimes it is easier said than done. In the current situation, enacting a law criminalizing hate speech might not bode well. The Shoura members cannot make hasty decisions. They keep the bigger picture in mind. Sometimes we don’t understand those decisions but at a later stage we realize that it was the best thing to do under those circumstances. — Shafiq Ahmed Khan, Riyadh
Hate speech
