| The Sarika Singh Kara Case |
 |
 |
 |
|
MPSA Press Statement - Right to wear Sikh symbols The Metropolitan Police Sikh Association (MPSA) is saddened to learn that 14 year-old Sarika Singh, a British born resident of Wales, is being denied education by her school and her Local Educational Authority because she wears a Sikh symbol of her faith, namely a iron bangle on her right wrist; a kara. Sikhs are enjoined to wear a kara as part of their religion; it is an integral part of the Sikh faith. The MPSA is concerned regarding the discrimination faced by Sarika, having been firstly taught in isolation and then suspended - such action may have an enduring effect on Sarika’s health and education. We find this decision to remove her from schooling perverse. In Britain, every child should have the right to free education including religious and racial minority communities. Such communities should have the freedom to be able to practice their basic religious beliefs. The MPSA, like the local MP Anne Clyde is supportive to Sarika, and equally concerned that a sensible and pragmatic decision that is consistent with Race Relations legislation and the European Convention of Human Rights has not yet been reached. Despite not being allowed to enter her own school for wearing a kara, Sarika will be invited into New Scotland Yard, the headquarters of the Metropolitan Police Service. For further information about the MPSA or its community projects please contact us. |