Veil of tears

I WAs grieved to hear of the full-face veil ban being legalised in Austria. It is estimated that of the nearly nine million people in that country, this restriction will actually apply to a mere 150 women.

Forcefully removing the garment from these women will not solve Austria’s problems.

Everyone has a right to freedom of expression. When it comes to the printing of derogatory caricatures of holy religious figures and deeply hurting the sentiments of millions of people, the flag of freedom is flown high and projected aloud.

But when the tables are turned and it comes to protecting the choice of these women, suddenly freedom is quietly brushed under the carpet.

We live in times with increasing hostility between communities, races and religions. It is a time when governments should be seeking to enact policies that bring the world together and to unite us. Maleeha ManSUr,

london, SW20.