Hair Raising Issue

The recent incident of the alleged hair cutting in a national training camp has indeed raised an eye brow or two within the Sikh community in particular and in some pockets of the general public. As investigations are underway, we should not allow it to be blown out of proportion merely on speculative tones. The Sikhs have been an integral part of our multi cultured society in time memorial but unfortunately many still are not aware of our cultures, principles, religious' requirements and societal needs. This phenomena is a global occurance indeed; far more for the fact that we are always the minority community worldwide, even in India itself

Indeed if there was an element of malice and the hair snipping was done on purpose, the culprit or culprits must be made to face the music, but nevertheless, it could also be a prank and appropraite disciplinary action must be taken without fear or favour. Nevertheless, a very quick inspection of the alleged cut hair could immediately confirm if indeed it happened recently since there is no physical evidence at hand. This can be easily confirmed by a hair expert or trichologist or maybe even an experienced barber down the road. It does not take a nuclear scientist to figure that out. A good magnifying glass will do to to aid in the visible inspection of the ends of the snipped hair.

Sikhism clearly states that one must always be patient and do no harm unto others. The truth always prevails and we should not let such an incident to derail out thoughts and minds into a negative avenue thus provoking hatred among communities. As Sikhs, we must always look from a positive point of view. This alleged incident has indeed quickly educated the non-aware group that keeping unshaven hair is a requirement by the religion. But, we must also admit that many Sikhs have chosen not to adhere to these order and many other religious demands. It is by their own choice. Some very obvious examples which are strictly prohibited in the Sikh religion are gambling, tobacco and alcohol consumption. Yet many indulge by their own virtue. Over decades, the Sikh society has evolved in accepting the fact that it is within an individual's right on how they want to practice Sikhism; as eventually we are only answerable to God for our worldly doings.

We have to acknowlege that it does not matter whose hair was snipped. The fundamental question is the fact that if the allegation is true, then invasion on ones privacy occured and such act cannot be accepted by any standards, be it on religious' grounds or legal grounds. I do not think this will be a religiously tinged pandemonium if it had occured on a cropped Sikh, another boy or girl. As Sikhism clearly states, one must always look at the bigger picture and have an open mind for a greater good.