“Police told to respect traditions,” from the Herald Sun, with thanks to Terry:
POLICE are being advised to treat Muslim domestic violence cases differently out of respect for Islamic traditions and habits.
Officers are also being urged to work with Muslim leaders, who will try to keep the families together.
Women’s groups are concerned the politically correct policing could give comfort to wife bashers and keep their victims in a cycle of violence.
The instructions come in a religious diversity handbook given to Victorian police officers that also recommends special treatment for suspects of Aboriginal, Hindu and Buddhist background…
Police are told: “In incidents such as domestic violence, police need to have an understanding of the traditions, ways of life and habits of Muslims.”
They are told it would be appreciated in cases of domestic violence if police consult the local Muslim religious leader who will work against “fragmenting the family unit”.
Islamic Women’s Welfare Council head Joumanah El Matrah called the guidelines appalling and dangerous.
“The implication is one needs to be more tolerant of violence against Muslim women but they should be entitled to the same protection,” Ms El Matrah said.
“Police should not be advising other officers to follow those sorts of protocols.
“It can only lead to harm.”
Ms El Matrah said Muslim leaders should be brought into domestic violence investigations only if requested by the abused woman.