Media Release
Yesterday, July 13, 2008 the Child Protection Office released its official decision in a case regarding allegations against Gauri das of the UK yatra, for events occuring during his tenure as a teacher at the ISKCON-affiliated school in Vrindavana, India, during the 1990’s.
Today, the Manor’s managing council adopted an official statement presented below.
Anuttama dasa Minister ISKCON Communications
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14th July 2008 Official Statement from Bhaktivedanta Manor
Yesterday, on 13th July 2008, Gauri Das stepped down from his position as Temple President of Bhaktivedanta Manor after a decision by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness Central Office of Child Protection.
The decision found Gauri Das responsible for “inappropriate and excessive corporal punishment” whilst a teacher at an ISKCON affiliated school in India during the 1990’s. The decision means that Gauri Das will not be able to take any position of management in ISKCON for three years, although, he can continue to serve at the Temple.
While the decision finds Gauri Das responsible for excessive corporal punishment, it also goes on to give him credit for “many positive accomplishments” while he was at the school. The Bhaktivedanta Manor Temple also recognises and appreciates the dedicated service given by Gauri Das during his six- year tenure as Bhaktivedanta Manor Temple President from 2002 to 2008.
We regret that Gauri Das will not be able to continue as an officer of our temple, but we also recognize the important need of the CPO to acknowledge problems in the care of children in the past, and to address those issues.
We are pleased that Gauri Das has indicated that he would like to meet with the former students in the hope of further reconciliation.
Board of Council Members Bhaktivedanta Manor