During a visit to the Juma Mosque of Derbent in Dagestan on June 29, 2023, Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized the sanctity of the Quran, stating that it should be respected universally, not just within the Muslim community. This declaration came as he was presented with a copy of the holy book on the auspicious first day of Eid al-Adha.
Putin’s remarks were particularly poignant in light of recent events where the Quran was desecrated in Sweden, an action that has sparked outrage among Muslim nations globally. The incident involved a public protest authorized by Swedish police under the guise of free speech, during which the Quran was publicly mistreated. This has led to an investigation by Swedish authorities into potential incitement of ethnic and religious strife.
Speaking at the oldest mosque in Russia, Putin highlighted the contrast in handling such sensitive issues between Russia and Sweden. He pointed out that in Russia, acts of religious disrespect and incitement of ethnic and religious strife are criminal offenses under the Constitution and the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation (Article 282).
The Russian president expressed his appreciation to the mosque’s administration and remarked that the gifted Quran would be respectfully placed in the Kremlin, signaling the importance Russia places on religious tolerance and protection.
The visit also included a tour of the Naryn-Kala citadel, part of Derbent’s ancient defense system and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The citadel, which dates back to the sixth century, along with the eighth-century main cathedral mosque, madrassah, and residential buildings, underscored the historical and cultural significance of Putin’s visit.
Furthermore, the State Duma, the lower chamber of the Russian Parliament, has issued a statement condemning the desecration of the Quran in Sweden and urging Swedish authorities to prevent such violations against the religious sentiments of Muslims in the future. The condemnation by Russian lawmakers reflects a broader disapproval of Sweden’s authorization of actions that insult Muslim religious feelings, calling for greater respect and legal measures to protect religious dignity.