LOK SABHA
UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 4734
ANSWERED ON 20/03/2026
HARASSMENT FACED BY SIKHS IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES
4734. SMT. HARSIMRAT KAUR BADAL
Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:
(a) whether the Government is aware of the rising incidents in which Sikhs are forced to remove turbans and face humiliation in foreign countries;
(b) if so, the Steps taken by the Government to address the harassment faced by the Indian citizens particularly those belonging to minority communities while travelling abroad; and
(c) the measures being taken by the Government to prevent such incidents and to ensure protection of religious rights of Indian tourists particularly those belonging to Sikh community?
ANSWER
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS
(SHRI KIRTI VARDHAN SINGH)
(a) & (b) The Government remains firmly committed to safeguarding the welfare of all Indian nationals abroad, including members of minority communities. Our Missions/Posts remain vigilant and closely monitor any untoward incidents. Such incidents are immediately taken up with the concerned authorities of the host country to ensure that the cases are properly investigated and the perpetrators are punished. Moreover, such incidents are also raised bilaterally during meetings with Government officials of the countries concerned, including at the highest levels, as appropriate. Indian Missions/Posts continue to provide consular support and guidance to our citizens on local laws & regulations. Indian nationals are encouraged to promptly report such incidents so that the Mission may take appropriate action without delay.
(c) Indian Missions/Posts engage with local authorities and the local community to promote awareness regarding the religious and cultural practices of Indian nationals, including the Sikh community. Indian Missions/Posts extend full support to safeguard the dignity and rights of all Indian citizens.
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