barublogSikh Players Face Discrimination Despite Historic Win Over China
The Indian basketball team made history at the 5th FIBA Asia Cup in Wuhan, China, securing a memorable victory over the host nation. They also challenged World Cup qualifiers Iran, Jordan, and the Philippines. However, their triumph was overshadowed by an act of racial discrimination against Sikh players.
Forced to Remove Turbans Before the Game
Two Sikh players, Amritpal Singh and Amjyot Singh, were subjected to humiliation when officials barred them from entering the court unless they removed their turbans. Just moments before India’s opening match against Japan on July 12, tournament organizers cited Article 4.4.2 of FIBA’s rules, which restricts headgear, hair accessories, and jewelry.
Despite coach Scott Flemming’s efforts to reason with officials, the players were only allowed to play after removing their turbans. Yet, even after this humiliation, Amritpal Singh delivered a game-high 15 points.
A First in International Play
The decision stunned the players, as they had previously competed in international tournaments—including the Asian Championship in Manila and the Lusofonia Games in Goa—without any objections to their turbans. “I have always played in a turban, even during practice sessions. It felt strange to play without it,” said Amritpal.
For 22-year-old Amjyot, playing without a turban was a first. “My turban is a part of me. When they told us we couldn’t wear it, I felt uncomfortable. But for the team, we decided to continue playing,” he shared.
A Rule That Threatens Sikh Representation in Basketball
Throughout the tournament, both players were denied permission to wear their turbans, forcing them to tie their hair with bands. If this rule remains in place, future Sikh basketball players may be discouraged from competing internationally. Amjyot’s parents have already advised him to play only in India, where such issues do not arise.
Outrage Over FIBA’s Discriminatory Rule
Coach Flemming condemned the rule, stating, “I personally oppose any regulation that infringes on religious beliefs. A headgear does not harm anyone.” He recalled spending hours convincing officials before the match, only to be told at the last moment that the players must comply with the rule.
Even the Basketball Federation of India (BFI) was unaware of the incident until two weeks later. BFI President RS Gill, himself a Sikh, was shocked and promised to take immediate action. “This is a serious issue. I will file a strong protest with FIBA Asia and World, and also escalate it to the Ministry of Sports.”
Gill cited an example from Canada, where a Sikh player challenged a similar rule in court, leading to an amendment that now allows Sikhs to play with their turbans.
Support the Movement: #LetSikhsPlay
Sports unite people—turbans do not pose a danger! FIBA must end racial discrimination against Sikh players.
📢 Take action now! Tweet to @FIBA using #LetSikhsPlay
📌 Sign the petition to bring change: Click Here
~ By Amit Sampat, TNN
~ Source: Times of India
Add comment