On 11.09.2024, the Sri Lanka Muslim Cultural Centre in Harrow (SLMCC Harrow), in association with COSMOS UK, hosted a meet-and-greet session with Dr. Shafi Shihabdeen, Senior House Officer in the Gynaecology and Obstetrics Unit at Kurunegala Teaching Hospital, who is on a short visit to the UK. As is well known, the false allegations levelled against Dr. Shafi Shihabdeen and his ‘trial by media’ escalated into a witch hunt following the tragic Easter Sunday terror attacks in 2019. His case stands as a stark example of how fake news and politically motivated narratives can alienate communities and spread discord.
During his speech, Dr. Shafi, after thanking the audience for their presence, shared the excruciating ordeal he faced after his arrest, which was based on fabricated accusations of sterilising pregnant women. He stated, “This was a conspiracy aimed at destroying me and demonizing my community. Part of this well-planned conspiracy involved sections of the media, inciting hate and racism against Muslims.”
Dr. Shafi revealed that he was detained for 46 days under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) by the CID and a further 14 days at Kegalle Prison. He has since been fully exonerated by the courts and reinstated at his original position in the hospital. He expressed deep gratitude to the community for their support and prayers during his ordeal and shared how his faith in Almighty sustained him through the difficult times.
COSMOS UK President, Mr. Shakeer Nawas stated on how Dr. Shafi’s case serves as a bitter lesson for the country, illustrating how hate-fueled politics and media-led Islamophobia can destroy peace and harmony. He also noted how Dr. Shafi’s case was recently referenced by anti-Islam campaigner Tommy Robinson, who used it to spread hatred and Islamophobia against British Muslims on X (formerly Twitter) Furthermore, Mr. Shakeer emphasised COSMOS UK’s ongoing engagement with bodies such as the Muslim Council of Britain, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, and APPG Cosmos to highlight the grievances and issues faced by Sri Lankan Muslims to relevant authorities in the UK.
Dr. Jawahir, Past Secretary and General Committee member of SLMCC, and a close friend of Dr. Shafi, from their time at the University of Sri Jayawardenapura’s medical faculty, also shared fond memories of their friendship and experiences as students.
Mr. Segu Razeen, President of SLMCC Harrow, Trustees of the mosque, and members of the public engaged in a lively Q&A sessions, which was warmly appreciated by the audience.
Arshad Ibrahim, Trustee of SLMCC Harrow, delivered the vote of thanks.
COSMOS UK Media
