Seechewal meets Indian Ambassador in Manila
Rajya Sabha Member and renowned environmentalist Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal, currently on a visit to the Philippines, met Indian Ambassador Harsh Kumar Jain in Manila to discuss pressing concerns faced by the Indian diaspora, particularly the Punjabi and Sikh communities.
During the meeting, which lasted over half an hour, Sant Seechewal raised the issue of Sikh residents in Cebu Island being compelled to wear helmets while riding motorcycles, despite their religious practice of wearing turbans. He conveyed that several Sikh families had submitted a memorandum detailing how local authorities were imposing fine on individuals for not wearing helmets, disregarding the significance of the turban in Sikhism.
“The turban is not only a symbol of Punjabi identity but holds immense spiritual importance in Sikhism,” said Sant Seechewal. He urged the Indian Embassy to take up the matter with the Philippine government to seek a suitable resolution.
Ambassador and his team reportedly listened attentively to the concerns and assured that they would work towards resolving the issues raised. The Indian Ambassador presented Sant Seechewal with a set of books related to Sikhism and India-Philippines relations.
