In Austria, while Sikhi is officially recognized by the govt., Sikhs still face significant challenges in obtaining full legal protection within the judicial system. The key issue is that Sikhs need to make up at least 2% of Austria’s population for their faith to be fully protected under the law, including addressing sacrilege through legal channels. This became a problem after an incident involving a violation of Sikh religious protocol during the parkash (installation) of Guru Granth Sahib, where local Sikh authorities had no legal recourse due to the lack of judicial recognition. Meanwhile, Charnamat Singh, an Australian citizen since 1986, reflects on the challenges many migrants from culturally diverse communities face in gaining social recognition. Despite spending most of his life in Australia, Singh often encounters individuals who question his place in society, as his turbaned appearance does not align with typical perceptions of an ‘Aussie.’ A University of Victoria report, found that racism is prevalent among culturally and racially marginalized communities in Australia, with 81% of respondents from South Asian backgrounds reporting such experiences. Meanwhile, Tarlochan Singh, former chairman of India’s National Commission for Minorities, has urged Sikh MPs in Canada and the Akal Takht (Eternal Throne, Sikh Seat of Justice and Authority; AT) Jathedar (leader) to take action against Quebec’s Bill 21, which bans public servants from wearing religious symbols, including turbans. Singh urged Canadian Sikh MP’s and the AT Jathedar to address the bill, citing its significant discrimination.
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