News 1130: Khalsa Sikhs allowed to carry kirpans in BC courtrooms

Prem Vinning with the World Sikh Organization is happy with the move and called it an open dialogue with the province. “There is a training video that has been created by the WSO with the BC Sheriff’s Office so that people can be trained in the courthouses.”

Sonia Aslam April 10, 2013 3:12 pm

VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – BC will now allow Khalsa Sikhs to bring kirpans in the courtroom.

The rule already exists for the Parliament buildings, and in courts in Alberta and Ontario. The policy goes into effect Friday and was brought in following human rights and Supreme Court of Canada rulings.

A kirpan is a small edgeless sword and the swords allowed in court can be no longer than seven and a half inches in total length.

Prem Vinning with the World Sikh Organization is happy with the move and called it an open dialogue with the province. “There is a training video that has been created by the WSO with the BC Sheriff’s Office so that people can be trained in the courthouses.”

BC Sheriffs have the right to deny anyone entry in the court if they think there’s a risk.

“It is to be worn underneath one’s clothing so that a third party can’t access it,” says Vinning.

Anyone who wants to access the court with their kirpan must also be wearing a turban and a ceremonial iron bracelet.