The Spanish city of Lleida in Catalonia has approved new municipal rules restricting the wearing of full-face coverings, including the burqa and niqab, in most public spaces.
According to AFP reporting carried by Arab News, Lleida’s municipal parliament voted 16-11 on September 25 to amend its regulations on civic conduct and coexistence. The revised rules prohibit remaining in or moving through public spaces while wearing items that completely cover the face.
The measure does not explicitly name the burqa or niqab but applies to full-face coverings. It includes exceptions related to the exercise of fundamental rights, places of worship and locations or circumstances where such coverings are socially accepted.
People violating the new rules can face fines, according to the report.
Lleida had previously introduced restrictions on full-face veils in some public spaces in 2010, but Spain’s Supreme Court overturned that measure in 2013, ruling that the local authority had exceeded its powers and that the restriction infringed on religious freedom.
The latest regulation was drafted with the earlier legal ruling in mind, according to the reporting. Mayor Félix Larrosa said the decision was discussed with representatives of Lleida’s Muslim community.
The development comes shortly after Italy’s cabinet adopted a decree law banning burqas and niqabs in schools.