King’s Cross station bosses today hit back at critics after an Islamic message appeared on its customer information board displaying train times.
During the holiest month for Muslims, the ninth day of Ramadan, the central London station featured a ‘Hadith of the day’.
Hadith’s are collections of traditions containing sayings of the Prophet Muhammad which constitute the major source of guidance for Muslims apart from the Quran.
It read: ‘The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) [Peace Be Upon Him] said: All the sons of Adam are sinners but the best of the sinners are those who repent often.’
The message sparked social media debate about whether public information boards should display religious messages, with some critics suggesting it was ‘misguided and counterproductive’.
But many applauded the display, and Network Rail bosses insisted messaging at the station also celebrates festivals from other religions including Easter, Christmas, Passover, and Diwali ‘to mark the beliefs of our colleagues and passengers.’
A Network Rail spokesperson said: ‘King’s Cross station is made up of a diverse and multi-cultural workforce and at times of religious significance, messages such as these are displayed to celebrate the station’s diversity and inclusivity.
‘Throughout the year, messaging at the station also celebrates festivals from other religions including Easter, Christmas, Passover, and Diwali to mark the beliefs of our colleagues and passengers.
‘If significant disruption occurs on the network, the boards are changed to display relevant passenger information to help passengers complete their journeys.’
Stephen Evans, chief executive of the National Secular Society, told GB News: ‘At best it’s a well-meaning yet misguided and counterproductive attempt at inclusivity.
‘Such gestures suggest favouritism, generating resentment and the inevitable demands from other religious or identity groups for equal recognition.
‘Religious messages like this undermine the principle of neutrality. Maintaining such neutrality in public spaces and services is the best way of nurturing a fair and inclusive society that respects all individuals, regardless of their beliefs or backgrounds.’
Many applauded the message, including one X user who wrote: ‘It’s Ramadan right now, of course there is going to be a Hadith.’
Another said: ‘Why are all the snowflakes getting offended by this?’
William Turner is a seasoned U.K. correspondent with a deep understanding of domestic affairs. With a passion for British politics and culture, he provides insightful analysis and comprehensive coverage of events within the United Kingdom.
