Sikhs allowed to drive motorcycles without helmets in Alberta
Sikhs allowed to drive motorcycles without helmets in Alberta Canada’s Alberta province, will allow turban-wearing Sikhs to drive motorcycles without a helmet from April 12. There are about 52,335 Sikhs in Alberta. It has the third largest population of Sikhs after British Columbia and Onatrio. The exemption was granted at the request of the Sikh community as recognition of their civil rights and religious expression, said Alberta’s Transportation Minister Brian Mason. “Our government is committed to these principles,” Mason said. A rider wearing a turban, but not a helmet, would have to self-identify to be considered a Sikh. At that point, it would be up to the discretion of the officer. If the officer doesn’t believe the rider, a ticket may still be issued, he added. “The decision by the government of Alberta to allow Sikhs to be able to ride their motorcycles without having to remove their turbans, which is an integral part of the Sikh identity, demonstrates a deep respect for the traditions and customs of the Sikh community,” Baltej Singh Dhillon, first Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) officer with a turban said. “This exemption is a testament to the government of Alberta’s continued commitment to respecting diversity and religious rights of all Albertans.” -PTC News
