If you see motorcycles being driven in parades in Saskatoon and Regina this month with drivers not sporting a helmet, it is likely the participants in the Regina Nagar Kirtan Parade on May 11, and the Saskatoon Nagar Kirtan Parade on May 19. SGI says a temporary exemption has been made to Sikh motorcyclists participating in the parades.

The exemption will allow them to operate a motorcycle in Saskatchewan without wearing a helmet while participating in the events and travelling to and from them. SGI points out that the Vehicle Equipment Regulations were amended in 2023 to give the Minister Responsible for SGI the authority to grant a temporary exemption to Sikhs as they participate in these events in the province.

The exemption is event specific. It does not allow all Sikhs to ride motorcycles without a helmet. Saskatchewan law requires all motorcyclists to wear helmets when operating a motorcycle on public roads.