Youth Akali Dal president Sarabjeet Singh Jhinjer today lashed out at the Civil Aviation Ministry and the Bureau of Civil Aviation for its recent directive barring Sikh employees from carrying Kirpan on duty.
"The recent directive by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) dated 30th October, barring Sikh employees from carrying kirpans on duty, is completely unacceptable and has impacted Sikh employees at airports nationwide," Jhinjer said.
"I urge the Civil Aviation Ministry and the BCAS to immediately revoke this order, as the 'Kirpan' holds immense religious significance for us, being one of the 5 Kakaars given by Guru Gobind Singh Ji."
This clause has already led to disturbing incidents at Indian airports, including the Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport in Amritsar, where baptized Sikh employees have been barred from entering terminal areas after security screening, hindering their ability to fulfill professional duties.
Jhinjer demanded a review of these policies to ensure consistency in handling Sikh religious symbols. "Practicing one's faith is a democratic right of every individual, and this move clearly takes away the right of Sikh workers working in airports nationwide," Jhinjer emphasized.
"It's a stark example of religious intolerance and discrimination, which has no place in a democratic country like India." Furthermore, Jhinjer condemned the directive as another shameful attempt by the BJP-led Central government to undermine Sikhs and their beliefs.
"This is not an isolated incident, but part of a larger pattern of anti-Sikh sentiment and hate speech that has been perpetuated by the BJP," he said.
"We have seen similar incidents in the past, the Sikh community will not stand for such blatant disregard for our rights and dignity." "We will not stand for such discriminatory policies and will fight tirelessly to protect the rights of Sikhs," Jhinjer asserted.
"The Shiromani Akali Dal has always stood up for Sikh rights and will continue to do so. We urge all concerned citizens to join us in this struggle for religious freedom and equality."