Wow I am really impressed with all the responses. I opened the thread prepared to be insulted or at least beaten down with some religious doctrine. But I can not fault any of your responses. They were sensible, well articulated, and intelligent.
I definitely agree that is about respect to not eat in public when people are trying to fast. But again I have to ask, is it respect when you are forced to do it by law?
I would gladly not eat in public during Ramadan, but I think it shows more respect that I choose not to do it, rather than not do it because of the threat of punishment looming over me.