Sikh police cadet stands out in Hong Kong Police College passing-out parade

A Sikh police cadet garnered significant attention during the passing-out parade at the Hong Kong Police College. He is part of the first batch of police officers to potentially wear a Sikh turban as part of their official uniform.

The parade, held on Saturday (Jan 25), celebrated the graduation of 37 Probationary Inspectors of Police and 195 police constables. These new officers will soon be deployed across various districts to serve the community.

A standout among them was a South Asian cadet in his 20s, who was particularly noticeable due to his distinctive attire. He wore the standard cadet police uniform and a reflective vest, complemented by a beard and a police badge affixed to his Sikh turban. Alongside his fellow cadets, he played a role in maintaining order during the event.

It is understood that the cadet joined the college in early January and could become one of the first officers to graduate wearing a Sikh turban if he completes his training by July.

Historically, officers with Sikh turbans have been part of the Hong Kong police force since the British colonial era. However, recent adjustments have been made to accommodate an increasing number of baptized Sikh applicants.

Following consultations with other law enforcement agencies and the Department of Justice, the Police Department decided last year to officially allow baptized Sikh officers to wear specially provided police turbans adorned with the police badge while on duty. These officers are also permitted to grow beards, provided they meet the police force's grooming standards and ensure that their appearance does not hinder their operational effectiveness.

These inclusive measures aim to encourage more non-Chinese individuals to consider a career in law enforcement.

Over the past decade, more than 120 non-Chinese applicants have successfully joined the force.

Ethnic minority organizations in Hong Kong have expressed support for these changes, and there has been a noticeable increase in inquiries from young Sikhs about joining the police force.