Kazakhstan may prohibit wearing hijab and niqab in public places

Kazakhstan is set to revise some norms of the law “On religion” including the possibility of prohibiting wearing hijab, niqab, and other religious clothes in public places, Minister of Culture and Information Aida Balayeva said at a briefing in the Central Communications Service, Report informs, citing Kazinform.

Answering a journalist’s question on whether Kazakhstan will ban niqab, hijab or other religious items, the minister said: “Definitely. At least in public places.”

“It is all about national security,” she said, adding the issue will be studied together with the public.

“The ministry, as an authorized agency, will work in this area and on toughening the legislation,” Aida Balayeva noted.