Voicing our indignation, anger and grief when our Deen is insulted is permissible. This right is not contested. But the methods of protest have to be within the bounds of the Shariah. Even peaceful, non-violent methods will not be permissible if any of the limits of the Shariah are transgressed.

The Qur’aan Majeed states: “These are the limits of Allah. Therefore do not transgress them. Those who transgress the limits of Allah, verily they are the oppressors.” (Surah Baqrah)

FEMALES
Thus, a protest march in which females participate is haraam. The perpetration of a haraam act in the name of Islam is haraam. It is not permissible. The Qur’aan commands women:

“And, remain steadfastly in your homes, and do not make an exhibition (of yourselves) like the displays of the (times of) Ignorance.”

INTER-FAITH
A protest which involves interfaith prayer services is not permissible. Islam does not apologise for its claim that only Islamic Tauheed is the sole repository of salvation in the Hereafter. Islam teaches that all religions besides this Deen of Muhammad (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) are false.

While we are required to refrain from showing any disrespect for the religion of others, it is not permissible to jointly participate with them in their prayer services.

PROHIBITED METHODS
Taking photos, shouting profanity against others, reviling their religions and their holy personages, injuring people, damaging property, hurling stones, reprisal acts targeting innocent people who may be related to the criminals by race, looting and similar acts of anarchy are all haraam.

PERMISSIBLE METHODS
Although protest marches are not Islamic nor admirable ways, nevertheless, if maintained within the bounds of the Shariah, will be permissible.

Other permissible ways are trade boycotts, petitions, legal action, and any method which is lawful in the country of protest, and which does not conflict with the Shariah.