How can one respond to those who claim that inflicting punishment and applying legal Hadd (penalties) on criminals is a barbaric act and against humanity?

Disobedience to the rulings of Allah the Almighty is a disbelief that expels one from the fold of Islam. Objecting to the Sharia is an audacity that emanates only from disbelievers or hypocrites. The Islamic penal laws (Hudud) achieve public interests and maintain security. They are the epitome of justice because they emanate from the All-Wise, the All-Knowing. Adultery is a crime that undermines families and spreads diseases. Theft is an assault on property. Slander destroys households. And intoxicants impair the mind. The imposition of wise and just punishments preserves lives, safeguards security, honor, and wealth, and deters criminals, thereby achieving security and tranquility.