The Cabinet of Ministers has approved the proposed ban on face and head coverings, including the burqa and niqab.
Minister of Public Security Sarath Weerasekara said a decision was taken to ban the burqa and niqab over national security concerns.
On March 13, Minister Weerasekara had announced that he had signed the cabinet paper on the proposed ban.
He further said at the time that the paper has been submitted to the Cabinet for approval.
The Government had thereafter said a decision on the matter will be taken only after proper consultation with relevant stakeholders. (NewsWire)