'Ridicule Of Sikh Identity Must End' - Supreme Court Deliberates On Bullying And Stereotyping

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In a Supreme Court hearing, Advocate Harvinder Chowdhury raised concerns about bullying faced by Sikh women and children due to derogatory stereotypes. A public interest litigation seeks to ban websites promoting such content. Highlighting the profound psychological impact of mockery and cyberbullying, the Court plans to explore educational measures and gather community suggestions, emphasizing respect for diversity.

New Delhi: In a critical hearing before the Supreme Court, concerns about the persistent bullying and ridicule faced by Sikh women and children were brought into focus. Advocate Harvinder Chowdhury, presenting a public interest litigation (PIL), highlighted the distress caused by stereotypes that depict the Sikh community as “low intellect, stupid, and foolish.” The plea aims to ban websites propagating such derogatory content.

The PIL, filed in 2015, revived attention on an issue that originated in 2007, following the arrest of a Mumbai-based publisher for offensive material targeting Sikhs. “These stereotypes have a profound psychological impact on the community,” Chowdhury argued, underscoring the enduring trauma inflicted by such narratives.

Chowdhury, representing herself and the International Sikh Women Council, explained how women and children bear the brunt of mockery.

“The community’s women, often identified by their distinct turbans and white suits, are particularly vulnerable to public mockery, influencing the social perceptions and treatment they receive,”

she said.

Children, too, face significant challenges. Many avoid using traditional Sikh titles like ‘Kaur’ and ‘Singh’ to escape ridicule. The Court was deeply moved by a tragic account of a young Sikh boy who died by suicide after relentless bullying at school, prompting his family to cut his hair—an act of profound cultural and religious significance.

A bench comprising Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan adjourned the matter for eight weeks to consolidate suggestions from Sikh Gurudwara Management Committees. The delay allows the Court to consider a comprehensive response to the community’s concerns.

Although past judicial efforts in 2017 to curb Sikh jokes were deemed outside the judiciary’s purview, the current hearing explores alternative approaches. “Sensitizing children in schools against bullying could be an essential step,” the Court observed, emphasizing the role of education in addressing these stereotypes.

The discussion also highlighted the growing issue of cyberbullying targeting the Sikh community. Chowdhury stressed the need for robust measures to safeguard individuals online, as the digital space amplifies harmful stereotypes.

This case underscores the urgent need for societal and judicial introspection.