By Andrew L. Jaffee

Banning burqas and veils? Perhaps the murder of Theo Van Gogh by an Islamist and the breakup of numerous terrorist cells in Holland have pushed the Dutch too far. A “center-right” coalition has been ruling Holland for years and is now expected to win again in scheduled elections — all in one of the world’s great liberal democracies, where you can buy magic mushrooms and visit hash bars legally. From the Beeb:

Dutch Muslims have criticised a government proposal to ban women from wearing the burqa or veils which cover the face in public places. …

The Dutch cabinet said burqas - a full body covering that also obscures the face - disturb public order and safety.

The decision comes days ahead of elections which the ruling centre-right coalition is expected to win.

The proposed ban would apply to wearing the burqa in the street, and in trains, schools, buses and law courts in the Netherlands.

Other forms of face coverings, such as veils, and crash helmets with visors that obscure the face, would also be covered by a ban.

The times, they are a’ changin.’

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Related: Islam, War Against Islamo-fascism, Europe

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