Italian police file case against Sikh wearing Kirpan, Sri Akal Takht expresses concern

Amristsar. Italian police have registered a case against a Sikh individual for allegedly carrying a "Siri Sahib", a reference to the Kirpan, the ceremonial sword worn by baptized Sikhs. Jathedar Raghbir Singh of Sri Akal Takht Sahib criticized the move, stating that the Kirpan is one of the five articles of faith worn by baptized Sikhs.

Three months ago, Gurbachan Singh, a baptized Sikh, had traveled to Italy where he was spotted wearing the Kirpan. Subsequently, the local police filed a case against him for allegedly carrying a sharp weapon. This action is distressing and a direct attack on the religious freedom of the Sikh community. The Italian government should respect the religious freedom of the Sikh community.

Jathedar Raghbir Singh has urged the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) in India to contact the Indian Ambassador to Italy. He emphasized the religious significance of the Kirpan for baptized Sikhs, urging swift resolution of the case.