Zero Tolerance for Child Abuse in ISKCON (The Hare Krishnas)

Whereas there has been a history of child abuse in ISKCON schools – especially between 1972 and 1990 - which caused some of our children immeasurable suffering and grief and which ultimately led the movement to the Turley legal case and settlement.

Whereas there is still at least one person in the position of Guru and Sannyasi who has played a major role in the history of child abuse in ISKCON and who to date has been supported by a section of the Governing body of ISKCON.

Therefore, we the undersigned petition the Governing Body of ISKCON to write the following resolution into ISKCON law:

That
A confirmed child abuser can never hold position of authority in ISKCON, such as Guru, GBC, Temple President, Regional Secretary, or serve on an ISKCON board of directors. Such a person also cannot hold any fiduciary position, or perform priestly functions on behalf of an ISKCON temple.

That
ISKCON leadership throughout the Society pledges to subscribe to a 'zero tolerance policy' and faithfully support the ISKCON Central Office of Child Protection Office in its service and implementation of its judgments.

That
Anybody in ISKCON leadership position found supporting, covering up or obstructing justice in terms of child abuse is disqualified to hold a position in ISKCON leadership and must resign from his or her office.