Kyrgyzstan bans the niqab, citing concerns it could conceal 'disguised attackers' and calling it 'foreign to our culture'

Image: Jihad Watch

Women in Kyrgyzstan could face fines for wearing full-body niqabs under a new proposal supported by the country’s official Muslim governing body.

The authorities argue that such garments might conceal "attackers in disguise" and are "foreign to our society."

This move comes as Central Asian officials work to curb the growing influence of Islamist ideologies, according to local news reports.

Earlier this year, the Muslim-majority country implemented a ban on the niqab, which covers most of the body except for the eyes, and some adult women wear it.

Those caught wearing the niqab could face a fine of 20,000 Som ($230), which is more than half the average monthly salary.

"The niqab is foreign to our society," the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Kyrgyzstan said, according to local media on Tuesday.

"It is possible that our niqab-wearing sisters are attackers in disguise, which poses a threat to public safety. Therefore, it is important to show your face openly to be recognizable," the body added.

(This Article was originally published by Jihad Watch)