Denmark bans use of the Niqab and Burqa; becomes the 12th European country to impose such ban

Copenhagen: ‘The Danish Parliament has clarified that Burqa and Niqab are not a part of Denmark. These things are not consistent with the Danish culture and the principles on which the country was built,’ were the words used by Martin Henriksen of the ‘Danish People’s Party’ to inform that a law had been passed to ban Niqab and Burqa. Although Burqa and Niqab have been banned, it was clarified that the Jewish skullcap, the Sikh Turban and headscarf were not banned.

The law banning Burqa and Niqab was passed in the Danish parliament with 75 votes in favour and 30 against. Around 74 parliamentarians were absent at the time of voting. The Danish ruling coalition had moved the bill for ban on Burqa and Niqab in the Danish Parliament. Under the new law, anyone wearing a Burqa or Niqab in a public place will be fined with 1000 Kroner (USD 157).

The law will come into effect from 1st August and there is a provision to fine up to 10 times for repeat offenders. As per the law, the Denmark police may direct the women wearing Burqa or Niqab in a public place to remove it or leave the public place. The Denmark government has clarified that the concerned law is not against any particular religion.

Ban on Burqa and Niqab has been a widely disputed subject in Europe and the right-wing groups have consistently raised their voices over it. In wake of the refugee influx in Europe, this topic has come under the limelight. The liberals in Europe are trying to oppose this ban. However, the European people are in support of the ban.

France was the first European country to ban burqa and Niqab in 2011. Following that, 11 European countries including Belgium, Austria, Netherlands, Germany, Italy and Spain have banned the Burqa and Niqab. Denmark becomes the 12th European country to ban the same.