Sri Lanka to ban burqa and close 1,000 Islamic schools

Minister cites national security for decision, saying garments are sign of religious extremism'

Sri Lanka has announced plans to ban the wearing of burqas and said it would close more than 1,000 Islamic schools known as madrassas, citing national security.

The minister of public security, Sarath Weerasekara, said he had signed a paper on Friday seeking the approval of the cabinet of ministers to ban burkas - outer garments that cover the body and face worn by some Muslim women.