London: Sikh athletes and spectators will be able to wear 'kirpans' to the London 2012 Olympic sites but with some conditions. Even though security will be at its highest peak during the much awaited Games, Sikhs have got a reprieve.
As part of their efforts to make the Olympic most religion-friendly, Sikhs will be allowed to carry the kirpans (religious dagger) as long as they are hidden under their clothes.
They will also have to demonstrate that they are following four other articles of faith - wearing a 'kara' and 'kacha', carrying a kanga and having kesh (unshaved hair).
Media reports in London said the length of the blade has to be a maximum of 3 inches.
A spokeswoman of the London 2012 Olympics said: "We want to make sure the Games are accessible to everyone. The kirpan will be presented at security but it will not be unsheathed. The policy has been set by our security team, who have liaised with stakeholders, and is part of our multi-faith approach."
As part of the security, the British government recently announced that troops would operate surface-to-air missile stations or shoulder-mounted man-portable air defence systems (Manpads) close to venues such as the Olympic Park in Stratford, east London.
In addition, snipers on board military helicopters will patrol the skies over London.
The Sikh faith is the fourth biggest religion in Britain, at 0.6 per cent, according to the 2001 census.
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