Following an announcement by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz at a Christmas event, the Sikh community in Punjab is temporarily being exempted from helmet fines, although an official notification is yet to be issued.
The announcement has effectively halted penalties for turban-wearing Sikh motorcyclists.
Sardar Parmjit Singh, a Lahore resident, relies on his motorcycle for daily commuting but has faced repeated fines for not wearing a helmet.
He explains that for Sikhs, the turban is considered a “crown,” and wearing a helmet over it is religiously prohibited. “This is not a matter of convenience,” he stresses, noting that faith and personal protection are deeply interconnected for the community.
The helmet law has long been a point of contention for Sikh riders. Sardar Bishan Singh, former chairman of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, says the issue was repeatedly raised with authorities. He led delegations to meet the Lahore chief traffic officer, submitted formal requests, and detailed the religious perspective to officials.
According to Sardar Bishan Singh, traffic police have confirmed that wardens have been instructed not to penalize Sikh riders wearing turbans.
However, automated fines issued through Punjab Safe City Authority cameras remain a challenge, as the systems cannot identify religious affiliation. Sikh motorcyclists facing such online fines are now able to visit traffic police offices to have the challans cancelled.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s announcement represents a significant step toward accommodating the religious practices of the Sikh community, even as the formal notification is still pending.
