The Muslim-majority country of Kazakhstan is contemplating a potential ban on the wearing of Islamic headscarves in public spaces as part of its efforts to combat extremism.

Culture and Information Minister Aida Balayeva, during a press briefing in Astana, Friday indicated that the authorities are reviewing and updating existing laws, which, in her view, lack the necessary tools to address religious extremism and what she referred to as “non-traditional religious movements.”

Balayeva highlighted a significant gap in the current legislation, stating, “The existing laws don’t even contain the term ‘destructive religious cults,’” as reported by news agency Kazinform.

When asked if the government plans to prohibit the wearing of Islamic headscarves and other religious attire, Balayeva responded, “We will certainly examine and propose such regulations, at least for public spaces. Such rules are implemented worldwide because they pertain to national security. It becomes very challenging to identify individuals in public spaces when their faces are covered.”

She further stated, “The ministry will be actively involved in strengthening regulations in this area,” and noted that these measures would be developed in collaboration with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and experts, including religious scholars.

Kazakhstan’s President, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, emphasized the importance of secularism enshrined in the country’s constitution while addressing a group of teachers on Thursday. He asserted, “This principle must be strictly upheld in all spheres, including education.”

According to the 2021 census, approximately 65 per cent of Kazakhstan’s population is Muslim, with 20 per cent identifying as Orthodox Christians.

The debate surrounding the wearing of religious clothing has surfaced in several countries in recent years, including Britain, France, and Germany. Last month, France’s highest court upheld the ban on the abaya, an Islamic robe-like garment worn by women, in schools.

Source: First Post

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Kazakhstan’s Muslims are preparing to mark the Holy Month of Ramadan, which will begin on March 23 and end on April 20, said the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Kazakhstan on March 14.  

Astana Grand Mosque. Photo credit: Aidos Ukibay/Twitter.

“This year, the month of Ramadan will begin on March 23. The night between April 17-18 will be the Night of Power or Laylat al-Qadr. Oraza Ait [Eid al-Fitr in Arabic] will be celebrated on April 21,” said the chairman of the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Kazakhstan, Supreme Mufti Nauryzbay kazhy Taganuly. 

Supreme Mufti noted the decision was made after consulting with the muftis of the Central Asian countries and the scientists responsible for the sphere of the fatwa. 

This year, the pitir sadaqah (charity donation) amount is 535 tenge (US$1.15). The donation sum was determined by calculating the cost of two kilograms of flour in the country. 

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is considered the holiest month of spiritual renewal and purification by Muslims worldwide. It is a time of fasting, prayer, and reflection during which believers abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs during the daylight hours. 

Muslims deepen their spirituality and strengthen their connection with God, and engage in acts of kindness and charity toward those in need.

Ramadan is a time of forgiveness and mercy, and it is believed that good deeds performed during this month are more rewarded than at any other time. The fasting begins at dawn and ends at sunset with a meal called iftar. Muslims also read the Quran (the Holy book) and attend special prayers in mosques. 

The end of Ramadan is marked by the celebration of Oraza Ait (Eid al-Fitr), a festival that involves celebration and gift-giving among family and friends. People give thanks for the blessings they have received during Ramadan. It starts on April 21, the first day of Shawwal, the tenth month in the Islamic calendar.  

Source : Astana Times

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