French Supreme Court upholds state ban on Abaya Muslim dress

Ban was challenged by Muslim rights group, which argued that it was discriminatory and violated the right to freedom of religion

PARIS, France – France’s highest court has upheld the government’s ban on the abaya, a loose-fitting, floor-length garment worn by some Muslim schoolgirls in schools.

The Council of State ruled that the ban violated neither the right to religious freedom nor the principle of non-discrimination.

The court said the ban was necessary to protect the secular character of public schools.

The ban was challenged by a Muslim rights group, which argued that it was discriminatory and violated the right to freedom of religion.

However, the court rejected the appeal, saying the ban was a “proportionate measure” necessary to protect the secular character of public schools.

The ban was met with mixed reactions.

Some support the ban, saying it is necessary to preserve the secular character of public schools.

Others oppose the ban, saying it is discriminatory and violates the right to religious freedom.

The ban is the latest in a series of measures by the French government targeting Muslims.

In recent years, the government has also banned the niqab, a face veil, and raided mosques and Muslim-run charties.

The ban applies to all public schools in France, including elementary schools, secondary schools, and universities.

Students who violate the ban can be expelled from school.

The ban does not apply to private schools, which are allowed to set their own dress code.