Being a Sikh myself, I think this would've been a wonderful idea for the British Sikhs; would've gave the British next generation a good patriotic kick; and also would've got the British Sikhs to unite under the flag of Britain rather then the present, where Western Sikhs tend to unite under a make-shift "Khalistani" flag, they don't have the same strong connections with India and their religious identity makes them stand out from their adopted societies; hence, you can't blame the youngsters growing up very confused! Steps such as these, like the Sikh regiment, would've given the youngsters confirmation of their recognition in society and would've given them a stronger sense of loyalty and responsibility, possibly even more then British natives themselves, towards Britain. In India itself, which is home to the Sikh regiment, Sikhs make up close to 20% of the Indian army, even though comprising of only 2% of the country's population. I am sure, it would be the same in Britain if the Sikh youth there are given a dose of nationalism which they most certainly crave!
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Originally Posted by Officer of Engineers
I completely understand the British Army Staff's position. I mean who would want to spend a day before the Human Rights Commission explaining why everybody else but Sikhs need a haircut?
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Sir, that day had probably already come the day the first Sikh joined the British army. Infact, Indian army's Sikh regiment itself is a creation of the British!