As per the BCAS guidelines, what is the maximum permissible length of a Kirpan allowed to be carried by a Sikh passenger on a domestic flight within India?

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) issued updated guidelines in March 2022 regarding the carriage of Kirpans by Sikh passengers on domestic flights. According to these regulations, a Sikh passenger is permitted to carry a Kirpan on their person provided the total length does not exceed 22.86 cm (9 inches) and the blade length does not exceed 15.24 cm (6 inches). This exemption applies only to domestic flights within India and from domestic terminals. This policy aligns with the religious freedom granted under Article 25 of the Indian Constitution, which specifically mentions the wearing and carrying of Kirpans as part of the profession of the Sikh religion, while balancing it with aviation security requirements.