In this episode of "Chai with T" podcast, we bring you the inspiring story of Baltej Singh Dhillon, the first member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) allowed to wear a turban. Join us as we explore his remarkable journey and the national debate he sparked about religious accommodation in Canada.

Baltej Singh Dhillon was born and raised in Malaysia before moving to British Columbia at the age of 16. Initially aiming to become a lawyer, his path changed when he volunteered as a translator for Asian immigrants at a Mountie detachment in Surrey. In 1988, Dhillon applied to join the RCMP, but faced a major hurdle: the dress code at the time banned turbans and required clean-shaven faces, which conflicted with his Sikh faith.

Instead of giving up, Dhillon fought for change. In March 1990, under Prime Minister Brian Mulroney's government, the RCMP updated its dress code, allowing Sikhs to wear turbans and beards. Dhillon began his police training and graduated in 1991, marking the start of a long and distinguished career.

Throughout his career, Dhillon worked in various roles, including as a specialist in interrogation and polygraph testing, and he played a key part in investigating the 1985 Air India bombing case. Even after retiring from the RCMP in 2019, he continued his dedication to law enforcement by joining an anti-gang agency in British Columbia.

In this episode, Dhillon shares not only his personal and professional journey but also insights into the philosophies of Sikhi, the challenges faced by international students, and his experiences with discrimination and racism. Sit back and enjoy this insightful episode of "Chai with T."

Tune in to hear how one man's perseverance and dedication to his faith helped pave the way for future generations.

Credits:

Host and Producer: Tarannum Thind

Filmed and Edited by: Speak Easy Podcast Production

Social Media and Brand Strategy: Girish Sharma

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