Muslim women religious obligation

In the face of hostility
Muslim veils have caused ructions in various parts of the world. Elisabeth Wynhausen goes under cover to gain a different perspective
November 22, 2006
Finishing touch: Elisabeth Wynhausen's headgear is adjusted by a shop assistant in Sydney's Lakemba. Picture: Alan Pryke - theaustralian.news.com.au
Although the burka is associated with Afghanistan, where it is still seen everywhere despite the fall of the Taliban, the garment that has come to symbolise the more extreme versions of the Islamic dress code originated in Pakistan.
For many Muslim women, though, covering their faces is considered a religious obligation. Whether the chasm will ever be bridged remains open to question.