NAPA Appeals to UNHRC and Canadian Government Against Quebec's Bill 21

The North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) has requested the UN Human Rights Council and the Canadian Government to take action against Quebec's Bill 21. The bill restricts public sector employees from wearing religious symbols, affecting various religious communities. NAPA emphasizes the importance of upholding human rights and calls for inclusive communities.

The North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) on Sunday urged the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and the Canadian Government to take decisive action against Quebec's controversial Bill 21.

The bill, which restricts public sector employees from wearing religious symbols, impacts a range of religious communities including Sikh, Muslim, and Jewish individuals, NAPA Executive Director Satnam Singh Chahal conveyed.

Chahal argued that ''Bill 21 undermines the fundamental principles of freedom of religion and expression, cornerstones of Canadian values,'' emphasizing that the Quebec government's stance sends a message of exclusion and intolerance.

Receiving widespread criticism and facing legal challenges, the bill is seen as discriminatory. Chahal reiterated the need for the UNHRC and Canadian Government to prioritize human rights and work to repeal the legislation.

He called for a united front among Canadians to oppose policies promoting inequality, advocating for the rights of all to express their religious beliefs without discrimination and fostering a society where diversity is celebrated.

''We urge all Canadians to raise their voices in solidarity against this bill and to foster a society where everyone can practice their faith freely,'' he concluded.

(With inputs from agencies.)