Initiated Sikhs wishing to wear a kirpan into B.C. courthouses may now do so.
The B.C. Ministry of Justice changed policy last week to allow visitors to carry the ceremonial daggers into public courthouse areas.
Those wishing to do so will be required to identify themselves to sheriffs and comply with size restrictions. The length of kirpan, including the sheath, may not exceed 19 cm, while the blade can’t be longer than 10 cm. They must also be worn under clothing and not be easily accessible.
Until now, anyone with a kirpan was asked by sheriffs to put their daggers or swords in their vehicles or stay outside the courthouse. Sheriffs will still assess risk factors, by asking what type of proceeding is being attended and the person’s connection to the case. Sheriffs will have the discretion to refuse kirpans into the courthouse on a case-by-case basis.
The guidelines bring B.C. in line with Alberta and Toronto courts, as well as all Parliament of Canada buildings, where kirpans are already allowed. The new B.C. rule took effect Friday (April 12).
The kirpan symbolizes spiritual wisdom and the duty to stand against injustice. The Sikh code of conduct requires the kirpan to be worn at all times, along with four other articles of faith.
The World Sikh Organization (WSO) of Canada worked with the Ministry of Justice and B.C. Sheriff Service to come up with the kirpan guidelines.
WSO general legal counsel Palbinder Kaur Shergil said it’s essential for the kirpan to be accommodated if members of the Sikh community are to access courts to perform their civic duty and be part of the legal system.
“We are confident that the B.C. courthouse guidelines for the kirpan balance both security and the freedom of religion rights of the Sikh community,” said Shergil.
