Step not in consonance with Sikh religion: Istri Akali Dal chief

Chandigarh, July 9

Istri Akali Dal president Bibi Jagir Kaur on Monday took strong note of the UT Administration’s decision to make helmet compulsory for women, saying the step was not in consonance with the Sikh religion and culture.

In a statement here, Bibi Jagir Kaur said a meeting of all-women Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) members had been convened by her on July 12 at the SGPC head office in Amritsar to discuss the issue in its entirety.

Bibi Jagir Kaur said besides the SGPC members, she had also invited women intellectuals to participate in the meeting and give their views on the subject.

The Istri Akali Dal president said depending on the views expressed at the meeting, the wing would formulate its next line of action that could include a protest programme.

Meanwhile, the local unit of the Shiromani Akali Dal of Chandigarh has raised its objection over the notification.

The Akali Dal, in a representation to the Punjab Governor and UT Administrator, said the Sikh code of the Conduct, Rahat Maryada, prohibits wearing of caps, hat and helmet.

Hardeep Singh Buterla, president of the Akali Dal, said they met the Governor but got no assurance. He said the Akali Dal would hold a protest against the notification soon.