A landmark decision by the Alberta Court of Appeal in Canada has brought an end to a century-old law that required professionals to take an oath of allegiance to the British monarch. The ruling, made in favor of Sikh lawyer Prabjot Singh Virk, has been hailed as a significant victory for religious freedom in the country.
Pribjot Singh Virk, a Sikh lawyer, had challenged the constitutionality of the law, which he argued was incompatible with his religious beliefs as a Sikh. As a member of the Sikh faith, Virk believed that he could not swear allegiance to the British monarch, whom he considered to be inferior to his spiritual guru, Guru Gobind Singh. In 2022, Virk took his case to the higher courts, arguing that the law forced him to choose between his faith and his profession.
The Alberta Court of Appeal, in a unanimous decision, ruled that the law was in conflict with the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and ordered the province to repeal the requirement. The court’s decision marks a significant milestone in the fight for religious freedom in Canada, paving the way for individuals to pursue their careers without compromising their faith.
“This is a historic victory for religious freedom in Canada,” said a spokesperson for the Sikh community. “We are thrilled that the court has recognized the importance of protecting the rights of individuals to practice their faith without fear of persecution.”
The decision has sent shockwaves throughout the Canadian legal community, with many experts hailing it as a major breakthrough in the fight for human rights.
“This ruling has significant implications for the rights of individuals to practice their faith in Canada,” said a leading human rights expert. “It sets a powerful precedent for the protection of religious freedom and will have far-reaching consequences for individuals across the country.”
The Alberta Court of Appeal’s decision has sparked widespread celebrations among the Sikh community, who see it as a major victory for their rights.
“This is a momentous day for the Sikh community in Canada,” said a community leader. “We are grateful to Pribjot Singh Virk for his courage in challenging this unjust law and for paving the way for future generations of Sikhs to pursue their careers without fear of persecution.”
The ruling has also sent a powerful message to governments around the world, highlighting the importance of protecting the rights of individuals to practice their faith without fear of persecution.
“This ruling is a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting human rights and upholding the principles of equality and justice,” said a leading human rights expert. “It sets a powerful precedent for the protection of religious freedom and will have far-reaching consequences for individuals across the world.”
