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In modern times there has been debate about allowing Sikhs to carry a kirpan that falls under prohibitions on bladed weapons, with some countries allowing Sikhs a dispensation. Other issues not strictly of legality arise, such as whether to allow carrying of kirpans on commercial aircraft or into areas where security is enforced.
The kirpan is a dagger that symbolises a Sikh's duty to come to the defense of those in peril. All Sikhs should wear the kirpan on their body at all times as a defensive side-arm, just as a police officer is expected to wear a side-arm when on duty. Its use is only allowed in the act of self-defense and the protection of others.
A Sikh is expected to always carry five items on them to honor The Five Ks (Punjabi: ਪੰਜ ਕਕਾਰ Pañj Kakār), which is a foundational element of the Sikh religion. [2] The five items include kesh (an uncut beard), kangha (a wooden comb), kara (an iron bracelet), kachera (cotton underpants), and kirpan (a small knife). [2]
Sikh community members say anxiety over the immigration crackdown is hindering how some, ... (While Sikhs are required to carry a kirpan, or article of faith that resembles a knife or sword, it ...
Kirpans “resemble a knife or sword,” according to the Sikh Coalition, and “initiated Sikhs are required to carry” one “at all times.” “There is no prescribed length or sharpness for ...
The U.K. government passed an amendment by which Sikhs in the country would be allowed to carry kirpans and use them during religious and cultural functions. The bill was amended to ensure that it would not impact the right of the British Sikh community to possess and supply kirpans or religious swords.
Some restrictions may be in place to accommodate religious customs and beliefs. In these cases, specific groups may be able to carry knives according to their religious laws. For example, Nihang Sikhs can carry edged weapons and firearms after obtaining a license under the Arms Act and all Khalsa Sikhs are allowed to carry the kirpan in public.
Some of the reasons behind the education push include that Sikhs are a growing population in the U.S., bullying toward Sikh students is increasing — with turbans and beards making the group an ...