Judge throws out turban discrimination case

An Ontario Court judge has today rejected arguments from the Ontario Human Rights Commission that the province's helmet law discriminates against Baljinder Badesha, a Sikh motorcyclist who wears a turban.

Justice James Blacklock ruled that requiring Sikh motorcyclists to wear helmets does violate their freedom of religion, but the infringement is justifiable to ensure public safety.

"Given the nature of Mr. Baljinder Badesha's beliefs, which foreclose him from wearing anything over his turban, and yet the unquestioned safety and related issues, this is one of those cases in which unfortunately no accommodation appears possible," the judge said.

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