Kanishka Vohra
We all know that laws exist to protect people, maintain peace and order, and ensure justice. But some laws are downright weird, making you scratch your head and wonder who thought up such a law in the first place. From the downright ridiculous to the somewhat sensible, here is a list of 10 of the weirdest laws from around the world.
1. In Florida, USA, it is illegal for unmarried women to skydive on a Sunday.
This law dates back to the 1940s, when the state of Florida was much more conservative. The law was passed in order to prevent women from engaging in activities that were considered to be “immoral” or “indecent”. This law is still in effect today, though it is rarely enforced.
2. In Singapore, it is illegal to forget your own birthday.
This law has been in effect since 1972, and is meant to encourage citizens to stay up-to-date on their birthdays and other important dates. The punishment for forgetting your own birthday is a fine of up to $2,000 Singaporean dollars.
3. In the UK, it is illegal to die in the Houses of Parliament.
This law dates back to the 13th century, when dying in the Houses of Parliament was considered treason. The law is still in effect today, though it is no longer punishable by death.
4. In the Maldives, it is illegal to wear clothing that is deemed to be “indecent”.
The Maldives is a largely Muslim country, and as such, clothing that is deemed to be revealing or immodest is illegal. This includes items such as tank tops, short shorts, and bikinis.
5. In Saudi Arabia, it is illegal for women to drive.
This law dates back to the early 1990s and is still in effect today. Women are only allowed to drive if they are accompanied by a male guardian, such as a husband or father.
6. In Thailand, it is illegal to leave the house without wearing underwear.
This law was passed in the late 1990s in order to discourage public nudity. Those caught breaking this law can be fined up to 500 baht.
7. In China, it is illegal to name your child a “negative” name.
The Chinese government has a list of “approved” names that parents must choose from when naming their children. Names such as “Stupid”, “Lazy”, and “Ugly” are not allowed.
8. In France, it is illegal to name a pig Napoleon.
This law dates back to 1804, when Napoleon Bonaparte declared that no pig should ever be named after him. The punishment for breaking this law is a fine of up to 300 euros.
9. In South Africa, it is illegal to walk down the street carrying a beer.
This law is meant to discourage public drunkenness and disorderly conduct. Those caught breaking this law can be fined up to 500 rand.
10. In Singapore, it is illegal to chew gum.
This law was first enacted in 1992 in order to keep the streets clean and free of gum. Those caught breaking this law can be fined up to $100 Singaporean dollars. These are just a few of the weirdest laws from around the world.
While some of these laws may seem strange, they all serve a purpose and are meant to keep citizens safe and out of trouble. So remember, if you’re ever travelling abroad, check the local laws first to make sure you don’t break any of them!
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