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CHALLENGE to the BBC... from Khalid Anis.
Dentist makes call for voice of reason
Beatriz Ayala21/11/2006
A SENIOR Rochdale dentist has pleaded with BBC Radio's Nicky Campbell to give Muslims with moderate views more air time.
Khalid Anis invited Campbell and the Five Live team to his home early on Monday to kick-start a discussion on what life is like for British Muslims.
Dr Anis, lead clinician at the Dental Access Centre who was awarded an MBE last year for pioneering dentistry work and voluntary work, challenged the radio show to broadcast moderate Muslim views.
He said he had been outraged by Five Live's interview with Islamist extremist Anjem Choudary in September.
Dr Anis said: "It all started a few weeks ago when I heard Nicky Campbell interviewing a Muslim who was spouting quite extreme views.
"I was so angry I emailed in asking why they were always asking for a moderate Muslim view, but never featured one.
"They called me back and got me on the show the following day when I challenged them live on air to come to my house.
"They were allowing this extremist to speak out without putting his views into perspective, as if he was talking on behalf of the Muslim community, which was frustrating."
Dr Anis, joined by friends and family, was interviewd by Campbell and took calls and questions from members of the public.
He said: "I didn't think I'd get this reaction, but have been pleasantly surprised.
"Nicky Campbell came over to my house at 5.15am and then we had the show at my house with lots of people and microphones.
"People were invited to phone in and ask questions and lots of issues were raised such as the debate about the veil, Jack Straw's comments, as well as issues over belonging and citizenship.
"There was good feedback and lots of comments on the website."
Dr Anis said the interview was a way of normalising the Muslim community and putting forward the views of many unheard Muslims.
He said: "It was a step forward, a way of normalising the Muslim community along with everyone else and it was good to be given this platform to be able to speak.
"I do present a monthly current affairs show on Crescent Radio so was familiar with radio but I don't think I'll be giving up the day job just yet."
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23/11/2006 at 14:55