Muslim clerics ask for ban on ''Muhammad: Messenger of God''

Lucknow: Muslim clerics on Saturday asked for a ban on the film ``Muhammad: Messenger of God`, saying if the movie is released then it would lead to riots.

"In the name of Prophet Mohammad `Messenger of God` is highly objectionable because as far as Islamic law is concerned, it does not permit anyone to make any type of sketch or photographs of the Prophet of Islam," a Muslim cleric said.

He said the government must take it very seriously and impose a ban on any film that is being made by this name.

"In our view, sketching Prophet`s photo is wrong. Making these kinds of films is wrong. It is very unfortunate that these kinds of films are being made in the Mumbai film industry. I totally condemn this and I request for a ban from India. If this film releases, it might lead to riots," added another cleric.

A Muslim group in Mumbai has issued a fatwa against all those involved in the film, including renowned Iranian director Majid Majidi and music composer AR Rahman.