SIR - The niqab is not a sign of suppression, rather it protects the identity of a woman and she is recognised as a Muslim.

If she wishes to wear the niqab then nothing should stop her, just as any other clothing that might be significant in other religions, ie a nun.

The Qur'an states: "Say to believing men that they should lower their gaze and guard their modestyand that believing women should lower their gaze and guard their modesty; that they should not display their ornaments except as is normal, that they should draw their veils over their bosoms and not display their beauty except to their close male relatives."

A woman's beauty usually lies within her face which, if covered, will prevent herself and men around her from lustful desires. It protects the woman as females are not physically stronger than men (quoted in the Qur'an, eg).

It says: "Believing women should cast their outer garments over themselves (when out); that is most convenient, that they should be recognised (as such) and not be molested." Therefore this is not a burden on women.

My message is dedicated to Atif Aslam and M Zafar who seem to lack this understanding.

Sarah Ahmed, Broadway Avenue, Bradford