(Ahlul Bayt News Agency) - Islamic leaders say they are comfortable with the State Government's decision to give police the power to demand the removal of burkas and other veils.
Cabinet approved the changes late yesterday to bolster police powers during routine car stops if they have reasonable grounds to suspect a crime has been committed.
But some say unless the wording of the legislation is carefully constructed, the legislation could allow police to abuse their authority.
The New South Wales Government is refusing to give details on the new laws, which are being seen as a response to a celebrated court case involving a burka-wearing Islamic woman.
Some community groups, including Muslim Australians, have given their cautious support to the changes. But for others, jail time or a significant fine for disobeying a directive to show your face is potentially dangerous territory.
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