Banning of niqab (face veil)

As suggested by a reader in an English daily today to ban the face veil, I think both Muslims and non-Muslims will endorse this under the prevailing situation in the country. But I am of the opinion that this ban should be a temporary one, because of the divergent views of the Islamic theologians as to whether the face should be covered or not. 

As for those who abuse this attire I strongly feel that the culprits should be given the most stringent of punishment in order to prevent a recurrence. Legislation may have to be passed wherein the details of the punishment such as life imprisonment, etc., could be stipulated.

I humbly request those wearing this dress, my dearest mothers and sisters, not to make it apparel of fashionistas as this is worn for the sake of modesty which is obligatory in Islam. This dress according to Islamic scholars should not be transparent, neither of thin material nor flashy so as to become the cynosure of the opposite sex. It also should not be figure hugging so that the curvatures/contours of the body are highlighted.

I also kindly request to refrain from referring to this as ‘ninja’ as it is tantamount to ridicule of modest dress as done by some announcers over a few radio channels.

Mohamed Zahran