Toronto sources stated that Canada's Alberta province, which has the third largest population of Sikhs after British Columbia and Onatrio, will allow turban-wearing Sikhs to drive motorcycles without a helmet from April 12. Accordingly British Columbia and Manitoba already allow Sikhs to drive motorcycles without helmets. Alberta's Transportation Minister Brian Mason said that the exemption was granted at the request of the Sikh community as recognition of their civil rights and religious expression.
Meanwhile the exemption applies to drivers and passengers over the age of 18 who are members of the Sikh religion. Moreover according to an Alberta government spokesperson, a rider wearing a turban, but not a helmet, would have to self-identify to be considered a Sikh. Further 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.
As per report "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". Furthermore Gurpeet Pandher from the Sikh Motorcycle Club of
Edmonton called the announcement a "milestone and memorable day" in
Alberta's history.
