Man Arrested in Connection with Alleged Sexual Assault at Surrey Gurudwara
According to the RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police), a man suspected of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl at a temple in Surrey’s Newton area has been arrested. The incident was reported on May 4 and is said to have occurred at or near the Gurdwara Dukh Nivaran Sahib, a Sikh temple located on 68 Avenue.
The suspect, a 58-year-old employee of the Gurudwara, was apprehended on May 5 and subsequently released on certain conditions. These conditions include no contact with the victim and the requirement of another adult’s presence when in the company of anyone under the age of 16. It is worth noting that the suspect is allowed to be present at the temple as he resides there due to his employment.
Surrey RCMP has informed the Gurudwara authorities about the allegations and the conditions of the suspect’s release. The investigation is still in its early stages, and no charges have been laid thus far. Cpl. Sarbjit Sangha of the RCMP emphasized the sensitivity of the matter, given that the assault allegedly took place in or near a place of worship where the victim’s community frequently gathers. Sangha encouraged potential witnesses to come forward and provide any relevant information.
The Sikh Press Association, however, disputes the RCMP’s claims. Jasveer Singh, representing the association, stated in an email that the incident did not occur on Gurdwara property, including the parking lot, and that the arrested individual was not a temple employee. Singh asserted that the Gurdwara staff had communicated these points to the RCMP and that they are working with the police to achieve a fair resolution. Singh emphasized that Sikh organizations in British Columbia condemn any form of sexual abuse and are committed to supporting survivors of such incidents.
When asked for clarification, Surrey RCMP restated their initial claims, reiterating that the suspect is indeed an employee at the Gurudwara and that the alleged assault occurred at or near the Gurudwara Dukh Nivaran, as stated in their news release.