Punishment is not the priority: Swiss govt on fines for violating burqa ban

Switzerland has proposed a fine of up to 1000 Swiss francs ($1000) for those violating a national ban on burqas or face coverings.

The Swiss cabinet in its draft law has watered down calls to bring the ban under criminal law, and has decided to go ahead with imposing fines on offenders.

Swiss government says punishment is not the priority but 'public safety and order' is. Switzerland has 5% Muslim population.

The order follows last year's referenedum in the country that had sought a burqa ban supported by about 51.2 per cent voters. The move however was branded as Islamaphobic by critics.

Ban proponents, mostly right-wingers say that face coverings symbolize extremism, and should not be adhered to.

The latest draft does not mention Islam categorically, and is reportedly aimed at stopping 'violent protesters' from wearing masks.

Also read: Iran's supreme leader calls hijab protests 'planned rioting' by US, Israel