A UK-based Sikh restaurateur has called for a ban on kirpans, arguing that the ceremonial blade is being misused as a weapon against unarmed civilians despite its significance as an article of faith in Sikhism.
Restaurateur's stance
Harman Singh Kapoor, who runs the London restaurant Rangrez, has previously made headlines over controversy surrounding the serving of non-halal meat at the establishment. His comments come days after Vickrum Digwa, 23, was convicted of murdering 18-year-old university student Henry Nowak with a 21-centimetre kirpan. Digwa claimed he acted in self-defence during the confrontation, but a jury rejected that argument and found him guilty of murder. His mother was also convicted of assisting an offender after helping remove the weapon from the scene.
Renewed debate on legal exemptions
The case reignited discussion over legal exemptions that allow Sikhs to carry kirpans, one of the five articles of faith observed by initiated Sikhs. The issue has also entered mainstream political debate. Reform UK Spokesperson Zia Yusuf recently said his party would abolish the exemption allowing Sikhs to carry kirpans if it came to power. 'I don't care what religion you are. Nobody other than law enforcement will get to carry deadly weapons under a Reform government,' Yusuf wrote on social media platform X.
Differing views within the Sikh community
The issue has prompted differing views within and beyond the Sikh community. Supporters of the current exemption argue that the vast majority of kirpan carriers wear the ceremonial blade solely as a religious symbol rather than using it as a weapon. The debate continues as authorities and religious groups seek a balance between public safety and religious freedom.
