Sri Lanka plans to follow the ignorant example of many other European nations and ban the burqa. Sri Lanka’s explanation for this is that it is for security reasons and to protect the country’s citizens. But why now? The answer is not clear, but this could stem from what happened a few years back. Two years ago, a tragic and horrific terror bombing was committed by Daesh. It is important to note that Daesh was never an ‘Islamic’ terror group – none of the Islamic teachings promotes such savage behaviour. In a country where 10% of the country are Muslim, Islam is not diluted to a handful of deluded individuals’ actions.

For many Muslims, Sri Lanka’s plan to ban the burqa is threatening. It means that the sphere of free expression and freedom is limited. Devout Muslims who value the Hijab are forced to flee their countries or face hefty fines at the price of liberty. In a modern world that constantly reiterates its value for free expression, it is unacceptable to ban the burqa! The burqa for many females is a choice to cover the face and protect their feminine beauty from men’s predatory eyes. If anything, the nation should be in support of the burqa given the current Covid pandemic.

As Muslims, we should all come together and rally against this oppression. The Hijab is a mark of a believing Muslim, and no one should be compelled to strip their identity. Regardless of one’s stance towards the burqa, nobody should be told what to wear or whatnot. Governments shouldn’t dictate and govern personal choice but rather protect their citizens from fear and oppression! In ‘The Fatimah Legacy’, we will loudly voice our contempt against all oppressive schemes, and we pray for the reappearance of the Imam.  May Allah SWT keep our women strong and anchor their love in the Hijab.