Comment: Re:Religious Freedom (Score 2) 358
There are two main areas where the Sikhs come into potential conflict with the law of the land; The first is the wearing of a turban, whilst riding a motor cycle. Under the Motor Cycles (Protective Helmets) Regulations 1980 there is a specific exemption for Sikhs wearing turbans, Secondly, is the Kirpan (Dagger). Some police officers may believe Sikhs carry the dagger as an offensive weapon. Under the Criminal Justice Act 1988, which deals with carrying articles with points or blades, there is an exemption, if the person is carrying the item for religious reasons. There is however, no specific exemption under the Prevention of Crimes Act 1953. The person carrying the offensive weapon would have to show that they had a reasonable excuse. The inference being that the carrying of the Kirpan for religious reasons would fall into this category.
http://www.sikhiwiki.org/index.php/Kirpan#Legal_Cases
I have no issue whatsoever with Sikh's being allowed to carry the Kirpan, but I am curious as to how a religion can get a legal loophole.