Source: Hindustan Times/Press Trust of India

http://www.hindustantimes.com/news/181_971684,0008.htm

On August 26, 2004 the Press Trust of India reported, "France has assured India that the issue of ban on religious symbols in French public schools that includes turban worn by Sikh students would be sorted out in a manner responsive to the sensitivities of the Sikh community. The assurance was given when National Security Adviser JN Dixit raised the issue at the 'highest levels' during his two-day visit to France from August 23, it was officially stated on Thursday. 'An assurance was conveyed that the matter will be sorted out in a manner responsive to the sensitivities of the Sikh community,' Government said. There are about 5,000 Sikhs in France. Sikhs in France have vehemently protested the government decision announced six months back under which Sikh students have been prohibited from wearing their traditional turban to public schools in that country."