It is deeply concerning that individuals facing credible allegations of sexual abuse continue to be invited to do katha and kirtan, and lead Gurudwara programs. While some allegations may not meet the threshold for legal conviction, that does not diminish the responsibility we carry to protect our sangat.

Our duty is clear: the safety and well-being of our community must come first.

Allowing individuals with serious allegations to occupy positions of influence contradicts the core Sikh values of justice, integrity, and compassion. It puts vulnerable members of our sangat, especially our youth, at risk and undermines trust in our institutions.

We call on Gurdwara committees and Sikh organizations worldwide to implement strict safeguarding policies and take a firm, proactive stance.

We urge Gurdwara leadership worldwide to take immediate and decisive steps to protect our youth and sangat by:

• Suspending any preacher or leader facing credible sexual abuse allegations from public roles, speaking or performing in Gurdwaras
• Establishing confidential and secure reporting systems for victims
• Implementing mandatory safeguarding training for all Committee Members and Sevadars
• Creating clear accountability processes for addressing allegations

We urge members of the sangat to take a stand by refusing to host, attend or support events that platform such individuals. Collective action is essential to drive meaningful change. 

Patterns of Behavior
There are also ongoing concerns within the community regarding said individuals repeated controversies and troubling patterns of behavior. Members of the sangat have raised concerns that such individuals have:

• Faced restrictions or reduced invitations in regions such as the UK due to community concerns of sexual abuse allegations 
• Used Gurbani and the practice of Simran to coerce or normalize sexual abuse, which is a serious misrepresentation of Sikh teachings and is beyond disrespectful to our Guru, to Sikhi, and to the sanctity of these practices.
• Failed to use positions of influence to reinforce proper conduct and maintain focus on Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji
• Allowed chairs for able-bodied individuals in the presence of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji
• Shared interpretations or teachings about Guru Nanak Dev Ji that were inaccurate or misleading

These concerns underscore the urgent need for consistent standards, transparency, and accountability across all Gurdwaras.

This petition is not about targeting any one individual, but about ensuring that anyone given a platform in our sacred spaces upholds the values, respect, and responsibility that Sikh teachings demand.

Failing to act not only puts others at risk, but also sends a message that silence and inaction are acceptable. 

Sikh values teach us “Sarbat da Bhala”, the welfare of all. That principle demands that we protect the most vulnerable among us and ensure our institutions reflect justice and care.

Our Gurdwaras must remain places of trust, not fear.

By signing this petition, you are standing with survivors, supporting our youth, and demanding the accountability our community deserves.

Sign now to help create safer Gurdwaras for present and future generations, protect our community, and uphold the sanctity of our spiritual spaces.