France’s plan to ban the wearing of the all-covering Muslim robe abaya in schools has sparked a heated debate about the country’s commitment to secular values and its impact on civil liberties.

Education Minister Gabriel Attal announced that the ban would come into effect this week, just in time for the new school year beginning on September 4. Attal argued that restricting the wearing of the abaya would allow students to fully embrace their education.

Government spokesman Olivier Veran supported the ban, stating that French schools should be focused on learning rather than promoting religious beliefs.

Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire added that the ban was a necessary response to the increasing presence of political Islam in France.

Yes, it is an emergency,” Mr Le Maire insisted. “I welcome the decision made by Gabriel Attal. I welcome the clarity of his decision.

“‘No’ to the abaya, ‘no’ to all ostensible religious symbols, and ‘no’ to political Islam in our country,” he said.

While the abaya has occupied a vague position within the current regulations, some argue that it is more of a fashion statement than a religious garment. Conservative politicians welcomed the decision, but those on the left and religious leaders criticized the move, calling it divisive and contrary to the principles of true secularism.