06/03/2026
Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing criticism after defending the legal exemption that allows Sikhs in the UK to carry the Kirpan, a ceremonial article of faith protected under British law.
The debate comes amid renewed public concern over knife crime, with some critics arguing that all blade-related exemptions should be reviewed in the interest of public safety.
Supporters of the exemption note that the Kirpan has long been recognized as a religious symbol and that existing laws already distinguish ceremonial items from criminal misuse of weapons.
The controversy highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing public safety, religious freedom, and longstanding legal protections.