British Sikh Policeman wins tribunal case on turban wearing rights

An employment tribunal ruled Gurmeal Singh, 31, will receive compensation by an employment tribunal,  after being subject to “indirect discrimination” and harassment.

Gurmeal Singh, who joined Greater Manchester police in 2004, had objected to removing his turban for the course on religious grounds. In a long-running dispute with the force, a sergeant said: “Can you take that thing off?” the tribunal heard.

Judge Murray Creed said this was a “violation” of his “dignity”. Singh, who is based at Wythenshawe Police Station, had already told his superiors that he would not remove the turban on religious grounds, but was ordered to do the riot training course while off work with stress.

Singh, 31, was also asked whether he could modify his turban. He told the tribunal he feared he would be made to look like a comic character from Only Fools and Horses, where in one episode Del Boy Trotter tries to sell 200 “crash turbans” for fashion-conscious motorbike-riding Sikhs in Peckham – the motorcycle helmets had cloth wrapped around them.

Assistant Chief Officer at GMP, Julia Rogers said: “We felt we acted in the officer’s best interests, but accept the findings from this tribunal and have already updated the policies this relates to.

“We welcome the introduction of the newly formed British Police Sikh Association and will be looking to work closely with them via ACPO, in an effort to resolve any ongoing issues.”

The sum of compensation has been agreed on £10,000. Though amount does ot matter, but dignity is back. If Gurmeal Singh can keep his faith, dignity and turban (the symbol of pride). Why Can’t we?

News Sources: BBC & Guardian

Tags: Sikh News