Portugal Passes Bill Banning Burqa in Public, Fine Up to ₹4 Lakh

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Portugal’s Parliament has approved a bill that bans wearing burqas and face veils in public places. If the President gives his approval, Portugal will join other European countries where covering the face is fully or partially prohibited. Violators could face a heavy fine of up to €4,000 (approximately ₹4 lakh).

The controversial bill prohibits covering the face in public for religious or gender-related reasons. The legislation was proposed by the far-right Chega party and supported by other right-wing parties. According to the bill, face veils will still be allowed on flights, in diplomatic compounds, and at religious sites, but wearing a burqa in public spaces like markets, streets, and government buildings will be banned.

Heavy Fines Imposed

Those who violate the law could be fined between €200 to €4,000 (around ₹18,000 to ₹4 lakh). President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa may sign the bill into law, but he also has the power to veto it, in which case the matter will go to the Constitutional Court. This decision has sparked political debate in Portugal. The Chega party claims that covering the face puts women in a position of “social exclusion and oppression,” while left-wing parties argue that it infringes on religious freedom. Socialist Party MP Pedro Delgado Alves stated, “No woman should be forced to wear a burqa, but banning what someone chooses to wear also violates the principle of equality.”

Rising Restrictions in Europe

If implemented, Portugal will join countries like France, Belgium, Austria, and the Netherlands, which already have partial or full restrictions on covering the face in public.