First Grain of Sand — Page 177
FREE AT LAST 161 religious man instead, one big difference I have noticed between the two governments is that under British rule, religious freedom is fully respected by everyone. People express their religious views openly, give speeches, publish books, publish magazines, conduct debates on large scales, and the government helps them instead of hindering them, which is instrumental in maintaining peace. Hearing my full answer, the officer commented that when they confirm that I am a religious man, they will also give me freedom. But this was clearly a lie, as their government had publicly stated many times that no religious person is permitted to spread or pub- lish their religious views. The religion of the Soviet government is atheism. Certainly there is a population of its people that adheres to religion, but the government itself is organized and very active in spreading Communism and atheism. Additionally, roles within the gov- ernment are given to those who share the same views. During my time in various prisons, I observed that they tried in various ways to weaken Muslims religiously by trying to spread atheism and disbelief among them.