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Sikh told to remove turban for photo receives apology
WSN Network 

CHANDIGARH: The California department of motor vehicles (DMV) has apologized to Ramandeep Singh Anand and the Sikh American community after Anand was initially barred from taking his driver’s license photograph while wearing his religiously mandated turban at the West Covina branch of the DMV. 

‘‘Please convey my apology to Anand for the unsatisfactory service he received when he was requested to remove his turban for a driver license photograph,’’ wrote DMV director George Valverde in a letter to SALDEF. ‘‘It is regrettable that the proper procedures were not followed on the day of Anand’s visit.’’ 

Additionally, Valverde has instructed DMV staff to review cultural and religious accommodation policies, including specific references to the Sikh turban. ‘‘We thank Valverde and the California DMV for their prompt attention to this matter,’’ said SALDEF national director Rajbir Singh Datta. 

‘‘Valverde and the California DMV have demonstrated the utmost sincerity in their apology and a strong willingness to collaborate against potentially discriminatory practices.’’

According to SALDEF though Anand was able to take his picture that day, it required an inordinate amount of discussion, explanation and time. California statue requires a full-face photograph which displays the facial features (eyes, nose, and mouth). California residents are not required to remove any headgear that is part of his/her normal identification or worn due to religious beliefs such as the turban.

26 March 2008
 

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