I've been reading the current debate on kaes with great interest.

I agree with Sanjiwan Singh ('The Guru Loves Us Despite Our Faults', Jan. 25) in that we don't know the number of "tests" anyone has passed, but in any case that is not the point. No one has the right to judge any one else. This is between you and Waheguru.

But I do have an observation to make. I mean, honestly, for most people keeping kaes, at least initially, is a question of tradition, social pressure and inertia. Those people who have never had kaes are in a different category. For them to keep kaes after they mature is an extremely commendable and difficult step.

On the other hand, those people who have cut their kaes have actively taken a negative decision. It's not for any one to judge them but, anecdotally, this sub-group tends to be more "flexible" with "Sikhi". It's like a person who was on the path, but decides to step off it.

As an aside, I believe that eventually Sikhs will end up in two large groups. There will be a group of people who are Sikhs, but don't keep kaes and there will be a group who are more "orthodox". Analogous, I think, to reformed and orthodox Jews.

Amandeep Singh (Khurana)

P.S. In case any one's interested, I keep kaes and wear a turban.