France Detains Several People Enforcing Veil Ban
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Since the ban against face veils or niqabs was enacted in France last month, the government says police have stopped nearly 50 women who have worn them in public. Of that number, about 27 have been given the option of a fine or taking a course on French citizenship. ….
Neighboring Belgium has also moved a step further in enacting a similar ban, with the lower house of parliament approving legislation in late April.
But the ban remains controversial -… Yamina, 24, who wants to adopt the full veil – but not the face covering niqab – is against the ban.
“I think it’s an unfair decision, because finally it’s not the niqab that disturbs the French government, but Islam,” Yamina said.
Wire services report that the ban has also sparked calls on militant Muslim Internet sites for armed retaliation against France. Al Qaida leader Osama bin Laden, who was killed by US special forces this month, also warned France against banning the face veil.