France assures India on turban issue

 

New Delhi, August 26
PTI

France has assured India that the issue of ban on religious symbols in French public schools that includes turban worn by Sikh students would be sorted out in a manner responsive to the sensitivities of the Sikh community.

The assurance was given when National Security Adviser JN Dixit raised the issue at the "highest levels" during his two-day visit to France from August 23, it was officially stated on Thursday.

"An assurance was conveyed that the matter will be sorted out in a manner responsive to the sensitivities of the Sikh community," Government said. There are about 5,000 Sikhs in France.

Sikhs in France have vehemently protested the government decision announced six months back under which Sikh students have been prohibited from wearing their traditional turban to public schools in that country.

The French Government has contended that the law was not against any kind of religion, customs or traditions, but meant to ensure that in the system prevailing there, religion is not allowed to interfere.

It further argued that the law was against an religious sign in public schools that could create a climate of distrust.