Arnold Schwarzenegger Vetoes ‘kirpan’ bill

The US Sikhs are angry


Oct 13, 2009

Sikh Americans form a vibrant, peaceful, and law-abiding part of the United States community. California was one of the first places that Sikhs settled in this country over 100 years ago. Today, California is home to a large number of the Nation's 500,000 Sikhs. In a surprise blow to the Sikh community, California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed ‘kirpan’ bill. Arnold found it ‘unnecessary’, causing anger among Sikhs across the US. The decision came a shocking for the organizations, individuals and lawmakers who supported the bill. The bill was passed unanimously in both Houses, by 77-0 in the Assembly and by 36-0 in the Senate. After the September 11, 2001 attacks, Sikhs across the US are arrested for carrying kirpan (a religious article resembling a sword).

Without considering the unintentional religious practice, Sikhs were humiliated for carrying kirpan. The key intent of the bill is to raise awareness among the law enforcement authorities, and to train them to avoid useless arrests of law abiding Sikh individuals. “This loss for the Sikh community is a reminder of our serious lack of political clout in this state. After months of hard work and 100 per cent support from our lawmakers, the Sikh voice was still not strong enough to overcome the whim of one man,” said Prabhjot Singh, Sikh Coalition Board chairman. Sikh Americans form a vibrant, peaceful, and law-abiding part of the United States community. California was one of the first places that Sikhs settled in this country over 100 years ago. Today, California is home to a large number of the Nation‘s 500,000 Sikhs


more snippets...

We appreciate your feedback, please write to us by using our contact form


Home | News & Views | NRIOL Exclusives | Community | Resources | Visitors Medical Insurance | Shop | Help | Feedback |
Estd. 1997 © Copyright NRI Online All rights reserved worldwide. Please read our site policy.