WSO claims Sikh patient in Brampton hospital shaved against family's wishes
Author of the article:Jane Stevenson
Published Sep 12, 2024 • Last updated 1 day ago • 2 minute read
Sikh patient in Brampton
The World Sikh Organization claims Brampton Civic Hospital patient Joginder Singh Kaler was shaved against his family wishes and religious beliefs in late August. Photo by World Sikh Organization
The World Sikh Organization of Canada (WSO) says it’s shocked and outraged after an elderly Sikh patient was shaved without permission last month.
The WSO has written to William Osler Health System CEO Dr. Frank Martino over what it calls “ a deeply troubling incident at Brampton Civic Hospital.”
The organization says Mr. Joginder Singh Kaler, a patient who is a practicing Sikh, was shaved despite explicit instructions from his family to respect his religious beliefs and not do so.
Kaler maintains the Sikh articles of faith, which include maintaining uncut hair, so shaving or removal of hair is a violation of the beliefs of practicing Sikhs.
The WSO says the hospital contacted Kaler’s family to seek permission to shave him as he was unconscious and unable to provide consent himself, and the family refused the request.
Nonetheless, on either Aug. 28 or 29, Kaler was forcibly shaved in violation of his religious principles and personal dignity and had never shaved or cut his beard in his life prior to this violation.
The organization says this incident “has not only inflicted emotional distress upon Kaler’s family but has also caused them profound trauma during an already challenging time.”
The WSO claims the attending physician attempted to shift blame for the incident to the nursing staff, however, the lack of a formal apology or satisfactory explanation from the hospital further exacerbates the situation.
“We are shocked and deeply saddened by the incident that took place with Mr. Kaler,” WSO President Danish Singh said in a statement.
“Despite specific instructions by his family not to shave him, Mr. Kaler still had his faith violated in such an egregious fashion. Given that Brampton is home to the largest Sikh population in Canada, it is inconceivable that such disregard for Sikh faith practices could occur at Brampton Civic Hospital.”
In a statement provided to the Toronto Sun, William Osler Health System said they are “taking this situation very seriously” and they have “launched a thorough investigation.”
“Out of respect for patient privacy, Osler cannot comment on any individual experience, however, we are undertaking a comprehensive review of this case in accordance with our standard processes,” reads the statement. “Osler has expressed its commitment to share updates and partner with the family throughout this investigation. As part of this review, Osler is also collaborating with external partners also involved in the patient’s care to ensure a complete understanding of the circumstances.”
“Osler respects the religious rights and freedoms of all Canadians, and supports a positive, inclusive, and safe environment while caring for our community and each other with kindness, empathy and understanding,” the statement adds. “Serving a diverse community, including a significant Sikh population – many of whom are represented among Osler’s staff, physicians, and volunteers – Osler remains dedicated to respecting the religious and cultural practices of all patients and their families.”
jstevenson@postmedia.com
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The World Sikh Organization of Canada says it’s outraged after an elderly Sikh patient was shaved without permission last month.
torontosun.com
