The Aberdare Girls’ school in south Wales gave the reason for Sarika Singh’s suspension as “not accepting the school’s uniform guidelines”.

The school is known for its strict policy on uniform and does not allow students to wear any religious symbols, such as a headscarf or a cross.

But the girl’s family said they will fight against the decision and may even take legal advice. The girl’s mother, Sinita Singh, said she had argued her daughter’s case in a meeting with the governing body, which was unsuccessful. “It is not jewellery, but a symbol of our belief,” she said of the iron bangle. “It constantly reminds me always to do good and not do anything bad, especially with the hands,” Sarika told the Wales Today news channel.

The bangle (kara) is one of the five symbols of Sikhism, also known as the Panj Kakaars,  worn at all times by followers. The iron bangle is a reminder not to commit sins, and is the final thing Sikhs would look at before committing a sin with their hands.