New Delhi, August 26
PTI
France has assured India that the issue of ban on religious symbols
in French public schools that includes turban worn by Sikh students
would be sorted out in a manner responsive to the sensitivities of the
Sikh community.
The assurance was given when National Security
Adviser JN Dixit raised the issue at the "highest levels"
during his two-day visit to France from August 23, it was officially
stated on Thursday.
"An assurance was conveyed that the
matter will be sorted out in a manner responsive to the sensitivities
of the Sikh community," Government said. There are about 5,000
Sikhs in France.
Sikhs in France have vehemently protested
the government decision announced six months back under which Sikh students
have been prohibited from wearing their traditional turban to public
schools in that country.
The French Government has contended that
the law was not against any kind of religion, customs or traditions,
but meant to ensure that in the system prevailing there, religion is
not allowed to interfere.
It further argued that the law was against
an religious sign in public schools that could create a climate of distrust.