(a) whether the Government is aware that in the name of security frisking, Sikhs travelling worldwide are forced to remove their
turbans or else asked not to travel;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the Government is aware that as per international law Sikhs cannot be forced to remove the turban;
(d) if so, the details thereof; and
(e) the steps taken by the Government in this regard?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS (SMT. PRENEET KAUR)
(a) to (e) The Government is aware of the problems being faced by Sikh
passengers in some of the airports, particularly in Europe and the USA.
The Government has taken up the matter strongly with the concerned
Governments by pointing out that during security checks, airport
security officials should be sensitive to the specific requirements
of adherents to the Sikh faith; ensure that the dignity of Sikh
passengers travelling overseas, as also others, is protected;
and respect the cultural and religious sensitivities of all
travellers. The concerned Governments have acknowledged the need
for effective aviation security measures taking into account the
dignity of the individual travellers concerned.