Did DC Comics Make The Right Decision by Pulling The "Batgirl" Joker Variant Cover?

For those who are not aware. Recently DC Comics came under some serious backlash over a variant cover art for Batgirl #41. The cover was drawn by artist Rafael Abuquerqu, looking at the cover Batgirl is in tears as the Joker is touching her cheek and pointing the gun downwards.  This image struck a nerve with many fans men and women alike. Many find the image way too disturbing and reminds them of violence of sexual nature. Abuquerqu issued a statement on the backlash:

"My Batgirl variant cover artwork was designed to pay homage to a comic that I really admire, and I know is a favorite of many readers. 'The Killing Joke' is part of Batgirl’s canon and artistically, I couldn't avoid portraying the traumatic relationship between Barbara Gordon and the Joker. For me, it was just a creepy cover that brought up something from the character’s past that I was able to interpret artistically. But it has become clear, that for others, it touched a very important nerve. I respect these opinions and, despite whether the discussion is right or wrong, no opinion should be discredited. My intention was never to hurt or upset anyone through my art. For that reason, I have recommended to DC that the variant cover be pulled. I'm incredibly pleased that DC Comics is listening to my concerns and will not be publishing the cover art in June as previously announced."

With all due respect,

Rafa

Otakus and Geeks of the universe do you feel this cover is too dark or offensive? Does it remind you of sexual violence against women? Did DC Comics make the right decision by pulling the cover? Let us know in the comment section. I personally feel that nothing offensive is wrong with the cover. I see it as a reference to the Killing Joke which was one of the best Joker stories ever. I do believe that the cover is dark, twisted and a little bit sick. However I feel that the cover just really personifies The Joker. The Joker is a dark, twisted soul and this cover did exactly what it was suppose too. When it comes to a character like The Joker you're suppose to feel uneasy, you want to feel fear. Looking at this cover I feel chills down my spine on how sick The Joker is. Using Batgirl was a clever to reference the Killing Joke. Rafa could have easily chose another of The Joker's victims like Jason Todd. He could've use Todd in the same position with the crowbar and nobody would be up in arms. Let us remember comic book fans that all of this is a work of fiction. None of these characters are real,  none of them have walked a day on this planet (cosplaying doesn't count). Finally if you consider yourself an avid reader of comics and manga, I'm pretty sure you have seen and read a lot more graphic stuff. If you don't believe me check out the comic entitled "Crossed" and the manga "Dead Tube."