Islamic Country Uzbekistan Reportedly Bans Muslim-Style Beards, Fines Offenders $400
Tashkent, Uzbekistan: Amid growing concerns over the involvement of Islamic extremists in terrorist activities, several Islamic and Western countries are taking measures to curb religious extremism. Following in the footsteps of Tajikistan, Uzbekistan has reportedly imposed a ban on Muslim-style beards. Offenders who violate this ban are subject to a fine of $400, equivalent to over 33,000 Indian Rupees.
The Ban and Its Enforcement
According to a report by Europe Invasion, Uzbekistan has placed a restriction on the growing of Muslim-style beards. Those who choose to keep such beards will face a hefty fine, and if spotted by the police, they may be fined on the spot. While Uzbekistan has not officially announced this ban, reports suggest that officials have confirmed the implementation of these measures on an informal basis.
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This follows a similar move by Tajikistan, which had earlier banned both Muslim-style beards and the wearing of the hijab. There are also speculations that Uzbekistan may soon extend these restrictions to include a ban on the burqa, as seen in Tajikistan.
Countries with Similar Bans
Currently, Tajikistan is the only Islamic country with a formal ban on Muslim-style beards. Additionally, several countries, including Tunisia, Austria, Denmark, France, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cameroon, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Gabon, the Netherlands, China, Morocco, Sri Lanka, and Switzerland, have officially banned the burqa.
The ban on Muslim-style beards in Uzbekistan reflects a broader trend among some countries to limit visible expressions of Islamic identity in an effort to counter religious extremism. While the measures have sparked controversy and debate, they underscore the complex relationship between religious practices and national security concerns in various parts of the world.
Further developments and official confirmations regarding these restrictions are awaited as Uzbekistan navigates the balance between maintaining public safety and respecting religious freedoms.
