'Italy Proposes Nationwide Burqa and Niqab Ban, Meloni Government Plans Heavy Fines for Violators'

International News:  From Rome comes a major political development. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s party Brothers of Italy has introduced a new bill. It proposes that wearing face-covering garments like burqa and niqab will no longer be allowed in schools, offices, shops, universities, or government buildings. According to the government, the law is aimed at preventing extremism and social hatred, not at targeting religion.

Heavy fines for violations

The proposed law carries heavy penalties for those who break it. Anyone found wearing a burqa or niqab in public may be fined between 300 to 3,000 euros. In Indian currency, this ranges from ₹28,000 to nearly ₹3 lakh. Officials claim this is not a violation of religious freedom but a necessary step to ensure security and maintain social harmony.

Europe’s model of restrictions

Italy is not the first country in Europe to consider such a ban. France became the first European nation in 2011 to ban burqa in public spaces. Since then, Belgium, Austria, Turkey, Tunisia, Sri Lanka, and Switzerland have also introduced similar restrictions. The European Court of Human Rights has supported these bans, saying countries have the right to protect social cohesion.

Already in practice in parts of Italy

Some Italian regions have already implemented partial bans. In 2015, northern regions such as Lombardy prohibited face coverings in government offices and hospitals. The Meloni government now aims to expand these restrictions across the country. Supporters argue that this will improve public security and help identify people in sensitive areas.

Monitoring of religious funding

The new bill goes beyond face-covering bans. It also requires religious organizations without formal agreements with the state to disclose their funding sources. At present, Islam is not legally recognized in Italy, while 13 other religions are. The government insists Muslim organizations must prove transparency in funding and distance themselves from suspicious financiers.

Ban on virginity tests and forced marriages

Another important element of the bill is aimed at protecting women. It criminalizes virginity tests and makes forced religious marriages punishable under law. The government says these steps are essential to safeguard women’s dignity and to prevent abuse under the name of tradition. Human rights activists have also welcomed this part of the bill as a positive step.

Likely to pass with majority

Meloni’s ruling coalition currently enjoys a majority in Parliament, which makes the bill highly likely to pass. However, the government has not yet fixed a date for formal debate. Once passed, Italy will join the growing list of European countries that have imposed strict laws on burqa and niqab in public places. Supporters say it will strengthen unity, while critics argue it unfairly targets Muslims.