Reacting to the Delhi High Court notice seeking response of the Centre, the AAP government and the police on a PIL seeking directions to them to allow Sikhs to carry a ‘ kirpan ’ (a small knife) and ‘ kara ’ (bracelet) in public places, Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee chief Manjit Singh G.K. proposed the adoption of a sensitising programme in security forces.
Welcoming the Delhi High Court’s notice, Mr. Singh contended that the kirpan and the kara form a part of their religious identity and are not just symbols but articles of faith.
‘Violation of rights’
Rebuking security forces for constant violation of the community’s constitutional rights, Mr. Singh said the PIL by the DSGMC was initiated after 18-year-old Jasprit Singh, who had travelled from Jaipur to Delhi to hear the PM’s speech on Independence Day, was denied entry to Red Fort on account of his carrying the kirpan .
He went on to add that there were also cases of security forces stopping Sikh students from entering the exam hall during NEET medical entrance exams.
“Security agencies are not aware of the religious sentiments involved in prohibiting the carrying of dagger in public spaces. This is not to undermine security concerns. The solution is to balance protection with the community’s constitutional right,” he said.
Article 25 of the Constitution allows every citizen to practice and propagate any religion, said Mr. Singh.
The High Court has sought replies by March 27, the next date of hearing.