SURINDER SINGH JAILED IN GLASGOW FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT AT GURU NANAK SIKH TEMPLE
In a case that has shocked the local community in Glasgow, Surinder Singh, a cleric associated with the Guru Nanak Sikh Temple, was sentenced to six months in prison after being found guilty of sexually assaulting a 12-year-old girl.The incident took place in January at the temple located on Otago Street, where Singh was visiting Scotland on a visa from India.
According to court proceedings, Singh, aged 53 and a married father of five, engaged in inappropriate and abusive behavior towards the young girl during a religious event.
The girl, whose identity remains protected for legal reasons, recounted that she was at the temple to participate in prayers when she was asked to visit Singh’s room under the pretense of learning how to play the harmonium.
During this visit, Singh’s conduct became increasingly disturbing.
The girl described how Singh initially placed a cashew nut in her mouth, which she believed to be a part of a religious or holy act.
She explained that she thought this was a sacred gesture, but the situation soon escalated.
She left the room momentarily to help serve food but later returned to continue practicing the instrument, sitting on a bed in Singh’s room.
It was during this time that Singh’s inappropriate actions became more evident.
The young girl testified that Singh began touching her face and making comments about her appearance, saying, “You have a beautiful face.” She was asked by prosecutor Joe Stewart how she felt during these moments, to which she responded, “I sort of suspected he was doing something dirty.” She further revealed that Singh attempted to kiss her on the lips, an act she managed to turn away from, feeling “very dirty” afterward.
Following the incident, Singh took her hand while they were still in the room and told her they were “now friends.” The girl, distressed and uncomfortable, left immediately and confided in a family friend and her father.
The police were contacted promptly, leading to Singh’s arrest and subsequent trial.
During the court hearing at Glasgow Sheriff Court, Singh maintained his innocence, denying all allegations of assault.
His defense lawyer, Frank Moore, emphasized that Singh still denies the charges and expressed that Singh is eager to serve his sentence and return to India once released.
However, Sheriff Anthony Deutsch, who presided over the case, was unconvinced by Singh’s denial and emphasized that Singh displayed a “total lack of acceptance or remorse” for his actions.
Singh’s conviction and sentencing serve as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding minors and maintaining vigilance within community and religious settings.
The case has garnered significant attention in Glasgow, highlighting the need for continued awareness and protective measures for vulnerable individuals in such environments.
