The Islamic veil debate rages on

A group of Muslim women publicly opposed the wearing of the burqa, further fueling the debate around the Islamic veil.

The Sisters in Islam say Islam has no laws making the wearing of the full veil compulsory, the group’s founder, Zainah Anwar, describing the burqa as “an affront to human dignity” for the women who wear it.

However, Malaysian businessman Zulkifli Hamzah, who is in Auckland to help set up a Muslim branch “Obedient Wives Club”, said followers of Islam understand that “women and men are not not equal “.

“If a woman is told to wear a burqa or a hijab so as not to tempt other men, then she must obey.”

Readers of the Herald are divided over whether the burqa should be allowed in New Zealand society.

“Burquas, niqabs or any form of head covering are not required in Islam. The Qur’an certainly does not refer to any of this directly. To say that respecting women who were burquas is respecting religious beliefs is a error. In saying this, [New Zealanders strongly believe in freedom of expression and a ban on face/body covering garments will never be implemented,” Francis wrote.

Andrew Aitkin said the veil is “ridiculous”, unless you want to rob a bank.

“Humans have evolved with facial-recognition systems for a reason. Burqas interfere with basic communications, and are literally dehumanising. Sometimes tradition needs to get over itself.”

Leanne Wech said the women speaking out on the burqa “are very brave and progressive in their thinking”.

“The women’s group opposing the wearing of the burqa brought up some interesting points that I a western women felt very sorry for them about, in particular that if they don’t [wear] the burqa that they are not considered good Muslims, I hope these women will be heard and understood. “

Deemac agreed.

“I am happy that this group has spoken. Islam does not require women to cover their faces, unlike some ultra-reactionary cultures. It is not disrespectful to Islam to forbid the burqa and similar veils. You cannot participate in a modern democracy. if you hide your face. “

Ma said it was great that New Zealand was so open minded and wears a burqa and other religions.

“However, these people come to this country for a better way of life, so I don’t know how bringing their values ​​and culture to this level will help them live better lives.”

Gandalf is not a fan of the burqa, but said it should be allowed.

“It’s arguably a horrible, oppressive piece of clothing from a very conservative society, but I don’t think you’re forbidding it. It comes down to the level of Muslims who strictly control what people wear. appropriate situations like in a bank. Australia does all of this.

The small government is good to say that the burqa should be allowed to people who want to wear it.

“People don’t have to agree or like it, but wearing clothes is a personal choice. in banks, airports, etc.

– HERALD ONLINE