Sikhs Say Airport Security Rules Altered

A coalition of U.S. Sikh groups said information it provided to the Federal Aviation Administration was used to draft new guidelines for airport security staffers, telling them not to harass turban-wearing travelers.

Almost all Americans wearing turbans are Sikhs because the religion mandates the practice for men, along with beards. Some women also wear turbans.

Sikh groups have accused airport workers of racial profiling since Sept. 11.

According to the Sikh Coalition, the FAA’s guidelines tell security workers that Sikhs who successfully pass through metal detectors should not be asked to remove their turbans.