The Danish government is considering a historic move by potentially removing an individual from a citizenship bill due to concerns about anti-democratic views. Minister for Immigration and Integration Kaare Dybvad Bek announced the government’s intention to investigate further the case of Hafiz Muhammad Idrees, a high-ranking leader in the Danish branch of the Muslim organization Minhaj-ul-Quran.

The decision comes after concerns were raised about Idrees’s promotion of books based on theocratic and Islamist ideas, including interpretations of Sharia law that advocate for punishments like stoning and whipping. This has led to a debate about who deserves to become a Danish citizen.

The Danish People’s Party, among other bourgeois parties, has voiced strong opposition to Idrees’s citizenship, criticizing his promotion of these controversial materials. If Parliament denies citizenship based solely on an individual’s beliefs, it would mark a significant shift in the criteria for naturalization.

Previously, politicians attempted a more thorough review of citizenship applicants by interviewing individuals whose social media activity caused concern. However, all three individuals interviewed were ultimately granted citizenship.

The case gained attention after debater Eva Gregersen highlighted Idrees’s inclusion on the citizenship bill. Gregersen criticized Idrees for promoting books containing interpretations of the Quran that advocate for strict enforcement of Sharia law, including harsh punishments for infidelity.

Berlingske has made repeated attempts to contact Hafiz Muhammad Idrees for comment. The organization Minhaj-ul-Quran faced scrutiny in the early 2000s when members seeking political office were questioned about their views on issues like the death penalty and LGBTQ+ rights. This led to internal divisions and departures within the organization.