AUC backtracks on niqab ban after sparking controversy in Egypt

Early on Monday, the American University in Cairo (AUC) backtracked on a recent decision it took to ban students and faculty members who wear the niqab (face veil) from entering campus, Egyptian Independent reported. 

The now-overturned decision, which sparked controversy across Egypt, was recently announced by university officials who cited "security reasons" as the main factor behind it. 

In her statement on the latest development, Rehab Saad, Communications Officer at AUC, said: 

“We sent a message to the niqabi students in the university, stressing on allowing them to enter campus normally, without taking their niqab off until they finish their education."

Saad, who explained that only three AUC students currently wear the garment, added that the decision to lift the ban isn't final and might be overturned at the beginning of the next academic year. 

According to Egyptian Independent, AUC is not the first university in Egypt to issue a ban on the face veil. 

In 2014, Cairo University banned the attire stating that it "hinders communication, especially during lectures".

Before the ban was lifted, AUC's decision to forbid the face veil on campus had sparked an intense debate on Egyptian television and social media. 

In last week's episode of Dream TV's talk show "10 PM", several guests reflected on the decision. 

Those against it said the ban is considered an attack on freedom of expression, while those for it explained that it's a necessary security measure. 

The ban was also widely discussed on social media. Here's what people had to say about it on Twitter...

There have always been differing opinions among Muslim scholars when it comes to the face veil. While most believe it is not obligatory, some think it is. 

Speaking to ABC News Australia, Dr. Raihan Ismail, a lecturer in Middle East Politics and Islamic Studies at the Australian National University, clarified a few points about the controversial face veil. 

"The Koran does not explicitly say you have to cover yourself in this manner," she explained.

"Some scholars argue that it is a religious obligation, particularly the more conservative factions within the Muslim world. There are many variations and interpretations," she added. 

When asked why women would choose to wear any kind of veil, including the niqab (full body covering with a slit for the eyes) or the burqa (full body covering with mesh over the eyes), Dr. Ismail said: 

"Some women wear it because they strongly believe it is their religious obligation." 

She also conceded that others "may be pressured into covering themselves".