CPOC is issuing this statement regarding ongoing child protection proceedings in Nepal. Allegations of child abuse were reported concerning incidents that allegedly occurred at a local centre within a Vaishnava community comprising more than 65 centres across the country.

As Nepal does not yet have child protection teams or a national office, CPO Bharat (India), at CPOC’s request and under its oversight, stepped forward to help ensure the allegations were addressed following the CPO Guidelines and the Enhanced Approach. The process is currently in its final stages of investigation, moving toward review and decision by an independent body of ISKCON’s child protection specialists (Review Panel).

Child protection cases are inherently sensitive, and it is natural that they generate strong emotions and concern. This case is no exception. Accordingly, this matter is being addressed through established safeguarding procedures, involving all relevant parties, including local devotees, leaders and law enforcement, Nepal’s GBCs, and CPO Bharat and external investigators, and with coordinated efforts underway. CPOC has been closely monitoring the process since the complaint was reported, providing oversight to help ensure procedural integrity and impartiality, while ensuring that child safety remains the central focus.

CPOC has observed that a wide range of information, including unverified claims, is being circulated via emails and online fora. It is regrettable that, during this sensitive investigation phase, information has reached wider audiences without full context, which may lead to incomplete understanding and misinterpretations that could affect the process. It is standard practice that, while an investigation is ongoing, information is limited to verified facts in order to protect due process. We, therefore, kindly request that devotees refer to their local leaders and CPO officers as their authorized sources of information.

CPOC will continue to remain engaged in overseeing the progress of this case as it moves forward. The involved parties continue to work within the established process to ensure that the matter is handled appropriately and with due care. Further updates will be provided as appropriate.