Washington: A US commission has asked the Defence Secretary Chuck Hagel to explain exclusion of Sikhs, known for their valour and pride, from the American armed forces.
In a letter, the US Commission on Civil Right, requested Hagel to respond to a Department of Defence policy that “appears to presumptively exclude” Sikh Americans from serving in the US armed forces if they do not give up certain articles of their faith, or unless an individual accommodation is granted.
Established in 1957, the federal commission is charged with the responsibility for investigating, reporting on, and making recommendations concerning civil rights issues that face the nation.
In its letter dated December 3, which was released to the media yesterday, the Commission said that the current US military regulations generally prohibit the wearing of religious headgear and maintaining other religious requirements such as unshorn hair and beards.
At the same time letter acknowledges the legitimate concerns of the military relating to service member safety and military necessity, but expresses concern over the apparent deterrent effect of such regulations on participation by affected religious group members in the US army.
The Commission points to the “burdensome procedures” imposed on military members who wish to obtain an exemption from such regulations, which have in the past included submitting a petition signed by many thousands of people and securing the support of dozens of members of Congress.
