Sikh Police Officers In NYC Allowed To Wear Turban

NEW YORK CITY : During a press conference in Madison Square Gardens, the New York City Police Department have announced an inclusion of new policy which will officially allow Sikh policemen and women to include the Sikh dastar (turban) as a part of their uniform. Prior to this policy change, Sikh officers had to wear a patka (tied cloth) under the officer’s uniform hat.The Sikh Officers Association worked with NYC Mayor, Bill de Blasio and Police Commissioner for the NYPD, James P. O’Neill, in making the inclusion possible.
More Sikhs will now be able to apply for a career in the NYPD and are expected to enrol for the upcoming police officer exam. The SOA is offering assistance to any prospective member of the Sikh community hoping to go for the exam.
Only two years ago, a large campaign group with The Sikh Coalition took place, expressing disappointment with the NYPD for discriminating against Sikhs in not allowing the dastar. News of the change comes as a delight to the local Sikh community who have long since wanted to be included in the force but unable to, due to the pre-existing uniform rule.