IN writing to condemn the reprinting in Danish newspapers of the cartoon of the prophet Muhammad (Mailbag, February 16), Farooq Aftab presents a less than complete picture.

The action was taken by all Denmark’s leading newspapers to show their commitment to freedom of speech after the arrest of three people accused of plotting to kill the man who drew the caricature.

Newspapers in Holland, Spain, Sweden and several other European countries did the same to demonstrate their support.

Mr Aftab may feel this to be “vulgar and provocative” and to “play into the hands of extremist elements”, though some may consider murder to be an over-reaction meriting some criticism of its own.

Perhaps the willingness to be offended is the price we pay for living in a Western democracy.

Lewis Rich

Fixby