By Zaima Khaliq
Guru Nanak Gurdwara in Wolverhampton has come under fire after disabled and elderly worshippers at the temple claim they have been discriminated against.
It was heard that disadvantaged members of the community, who were unable to sit on the floor in traditional customs, were told to sit behind divisive screens in both the prayer hall and dining room.
A trial had been due to start at Birmingham County Court today but a deal was struck between the two sides.
The agreement struck between the Gurdwara and the disabled individuals states that all screens must be removed from both rooms in the temple, as well as taking down signs which prohibit the use of chairs and wheel chairs.
In addition a lift will be installed providing access to the first-floor prayer hall and “all necessary auxiliary aids” – as stipulated by Wolverhampton council.
The case is believed to be the first of its kind for disadvantage temple-goers and may impact the way many Sikh Gurdwaras treat their less able worshippers.
Bhupinder Kaur Chohan, one of the disabled claimants, said: “Fifty years ago Sikhs were fighting for the right to wear turbans in public in this country.
“Here we are in 2017 fighting for the right to attend the Gurdwara as disabled people without being hidden away and forced to sit like zoo animals behind partitions.
“We have just the same right to worship and pray as everyone else. We should not be made to feel inferior.”
Judge Smail, said: “This is a compromise with good will on both sides. I can see the Gurdwara has committed itself to modernising in terms of its access for disabled people.
“All institutions have to do that and now the Gurdwara has agreed to that too and I commend that.
“Nominal damages will be paid so the claimants have compromised too.
“I am hoping this is a happy ending as far as it possible can be and I very much hope there are no further applications to this court.”
Rajinder Singh Basi, Chair of the Sikh Forum in Wolverhampton, said: “Disabled people are not second class citizens and deserve enjoyment of the same right to worship and attend gurdwaras as everyone else.
“Now the Gurdwara must make changes within a very short space of time and we look forward to them doing so.”
a spokesman, on behalf of the temple’s ruling committee said: “The Gurdwara maintains that it provided reasonable adjustments for those members of the congregation with disabilities whilst acting in accordance with the Sikh Rehat Maryada, the Sikh Code of Conduct and Conventions promulgated by the Akal Takhat in Punjab India which is the highest temporal authority in the Sikh faith.
“In reaching this amicable settlement, the Gurdwara would want to send the message that all are welcome with open hands and that the Gurdwara will continue to build on the provision for making suitable provision for the disabled whilst maintaining adherence to the Sikh Rehit Maryada in consultation with the guidance provided by Sikh Council UK.”The spokesman added it is understood the claimants have not yet submitted a costs budget to the courts.
