Harsimrat hails Australian PM's assurance on turban issue

Member of Parliament Harsimrat Kaur Badal on Friday hailed the assurance given by Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard on allowing Sikhs to wear turbans at workplaces and also while riding a motorcycle.

Member of Parliament Harsimrat Kaur Badal on Friday hailed the assurance given by Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard on allowing Sikhs to wear turbans at workplaces and also while riding a motorcycle.

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The Bathinda MP, in a release, said the Australian premier's gesture would go a long way in further strengthening the constant demand of Sikh diaspora across the world for allowing turban along with a 6-inch kirpan at workplaces. She said the decision would also play a significant role in creating worldwide awareness regarding the Sikh identity.

Describing the turban as an important part of the unique Sikh identity, Harsimrat said it was also a symbol of spirituality and holiness in Sikhism. "Besides, those who selflessly serve the community were traditionally honoured with turbans in our age-old Punjabi culture.

Along with the SAD-BJP MPs, I had always forcefully raised the issue of ban on turban and harassment of turbaned people at various international airports. I would raise the voice and feelings of Shiromani Akali Dal in Parliament till Sikhs are given rightful due."

Demanding a similar gesture from the French government on the turban issue, Harsimrat urged Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to make concerted efforts to convince his French counterpart to amend their federal laws to allow Sikhs keep their unique identity intact.