The Adalath Party today expressed support for amendments to civil service employee dress code regulations, calling it a good step for social welfare. In the amendments gazetted last Tuesday, requirements include male employees wearing ties with shirts and office boots during official hours, and for female employees, longer clothing length, covering so the chest is not visible, and banning bright hair colors except black.

In a statement issued by the Adalath Party, it stated that the purpose of clothing is to cover the awrah (modesty) and protect human dignity and honor, and that it is an obligation upon every Muslim. Accordingly, the party noted that dressing in accordance with Islamic standards to cover the awrah is a protection.

However, the opposition MDP has strongly criticized this amendment. In a statement issued by the party’s women’s wing, it accused that the regulation changes were made to obstruct female employees’ individual freedom and restrict personal liberty. MDP President Abdullah Shahid has accused the government of trying to control all aspects of women’s personal lives.

Former President Mohamed Nasheed stated that the state should not enter into personal matters in the name of protecting women’s modesty.