Sikhs allowed kirpans in Canadian missions
Thursday, 17/04/2014
http://www.tribuneindia.com/2014/20140417/punjab.htm#23
Toronto : The Canadian government has approved a new policy which allows Sikh visitors to Canadian diplomatic missions abroad to wear kirpans. Sikh visitors will be permitted to retain their kirpans when entering Canadian missions abroad, a statement issued by the country's foreign affairs, trade and development ministry said.
However, the individual should secure the kirpans within a sheath, attached to a fabric belt and worn under the clothing across the torso. They should also be in possession of the four other Sikh articles of faith, kesh (uncut long hair), a kangha (small wooden comb), a kara (steel or iron bracelet), and a kaccha (piece of undergarment), the statement said.
Tim Uppal, minister of state (multiculturalism), said: "Our government's new policy will serve as an example and promote Canadian values around the world.”
President of the World Sikh Organization of Canada (WSO) Amritpal Singh Shergill described the move as deeply significant. He said it showed that Canada understood and respected the significance of the kirpan to Sikhs.
