Controversial

Proposal to Move Mohammed's Tomb

Muslims outraged.

A plan proposed in Saudi Arabia could destroy the tomb of the Prophet Mohammed, one of Islam's holiest shrines, and move his body to an anonymous grave--a move likely to spur discord in the Muslim world. The proposed plan calls for destruction of chambers around the prophet's grave that are especially venerated by Shia Muslims. The remains of the revered prophet are housed under the Green Dome of Al-Masjid al Nabawi Mosque in Medina, which is visited by millions of pilgrims. Those remains would be removed to the nearby al-Baqi cemetery, interred anonymously. The proposals come from a leading Saudi academic, and there is no indication that any decision has been taken on them.