Why was a Sikh sarpanch denied entry at Red Fort over ‘kirpan’?
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Synopsis
BJP spokesperson R.P. Singh has raised serious concerns regarding the denial of entry to a Sikh sarpanch at the Red Fort on Independence Day, a situation that has ignited discussions about religious rights and respect within national events. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the Sikh community in asserting their identity.
Key Takeaways
- Incident highlights religious rights issues.
- Importance of the kirpan in Sikh identity.
- Call for accountability from law enforcement.
- National events must be inclusive.
- Community leaders demand respect and recognition.
New Delhi, Aug 18 (NationPress) BJP national spokesperson R.P. Singh on Monday approached Joint Commissioner of Police (Central Range) Madhur Verma, presenting a formal complaint against Assistant Commissioner of Police Shashi Kant Gaur for preventing an amritdhari Sikh sarpanch from a Punjab village from entering the Red Fort on Independence Day, despite receiving a special invitation to the event.
Singh characterized the incident as a significant affront to the Sikh community. Gurdhyan Singh from Kalsana village in Nabha was invited to participate in the Independence Day festivities.
In his complaint, Singh asserted that the sarpanch was barred from entry solely due to carrying the ‘kirpan’, a revered symbol of Sikh faith that is constitutionally protected under Article 25. He argued that this action represented a violation of constitutional rights, as affirmed by the Supreme Court, and constituted both a slight against the Sikh community and a failure of duty, tarnishing the reputation of Delhi Police.
During their discussion, Joint Commissioner of Police Verma initiated a video call with the sarpanch, expressing remorse for the incident and confirming that an investigation would be launched into the actions of the involved officer.
He also extended an invitation for a face-to-face meeting with the sarpanch, demonstrating goodwill and respect. R.P. Singh appreciated this responsible gesture from the Delhi Police leadership while emphasizing the need for stringent directives to prevent future occurrences and to fully uphold the constitutional and religious rights of the Sikh community.
Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) president Harjinder Singh Dhami condemned the incident on Sunday, stating that the denial of entry to Gurdhyan Singh due to his ‘kirpan’ reflected an “anti-Sikh mentality”. He noted that barring a Sikh from a national event due to their religious symbol is an insult to the Sikh community and represents treating them as outsiders in their own nation.
The SGPC president clarified that the “five kakars”, which include the kirpan, are essential to Sikh identity and cannot be forsaken. He called for decisive action against the officials responsible for this incident to ensure it is not repeated in the future.
Point of View
It is vital to recognize that the denial of entry to a Sikh sarpanch at a prominent national event raises serious questions about the treatment of minority communities in India. Upholding constitutional rights and fostering an inclusive atmosphere should always be at the forefront of our national discourse.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to the Sikh sarpanch at the Red Fort?
The Sikh sarpanch was denied entry due to carrying a kirpan, despite being invited to the event.
Who raised the issue with the police?
BJP spokesperson R.P. Singh formally approached the Joint Commissioner of Police regarding the incident.
What is the significance of the kirpan?
The kirpan is a sacred symbol in Sikhism, protected under Article 25 of the Indian Constitution.
How did the police respond?
Joint Commissioner of Police Verma expressed regret and confirmed an inquiry into the incident.
What has the SGPC president stated?
SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami condemned the incident, calling it a reflection of an anti-Sikh mentality.
