SGPC Moves Punjab and Haryana High Court for Uniform Rules on Kirpan in Exam Halls

The Punjab and Haryana High Court issued notice to the Union, Punjab, and Haryana governments on a PIL filed by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) seeking uniform guidelines for allowing Sikh students to carry kirpans in exam halls.

Chief Justice Sheel Nagu and Justice Sanjiv Berry heard the matter, with the Chief Justice questioning the need for a “knife” in such settings and weighing religious sentiments against State security.

Senior Advocate PS Hundal said kirpans are integral to the Sikh faith and cited a Rajasthan incident.

The Court noted the absence of any law specifically banning kirpans and directed the respondents to file their replies.