HIJAB BAN

The atempted ban on hijab is not an unforeseen development. About a decade ago, France was the first country to ban all women from wearing any sort of veil, or the niqab outside their homes in any public place (“Colonial mindset behind attempt to ban hijab,” April 10, Gulf Today).

The author’s assertion that colonial mindset is at play could be justified because the country has an imperialistic legacy. ‘Women cannot be empowered by taking away their autonomy, free will and right to choose.’ That’s hiting the nail on the head.

Shamila J By email