
September 20, 2024
Khalsa Camp California rebrands as Sikh Retreat amongst abuse by Manvir Singh
Recently, the Khalsa Camp in California underwent a significant rebranding, renaming itself to “Sikh Retreat.” This move comes after claims of abuse by UK-based preacher Manvir Singh, sparking widespread discussion within the Sikh community. The camp is run by the Akhand Kirtani Jatha (AKJ) and the Khalsa Foundation, two organizations that have long played a role in organizing Sikh camps and retreats aimed at spiritual growth and unity. However, the decision to rename the camp has left many questioning the motivations behind this change and the accountability of the organizations involved.
The Manvir Singh Controversy
For those unfamiliar, Manvir Singh, a controversial figure within the UK Sikh community, has faced allegations of abuse, leading to considerable backlash. While Manvir Singh did not physically attended the new rebranded camp, the association of his name with Sikh camps has drawn increased scrutiny toward the leadership and management of these events. AKJ USA and Khalsa Foundation have distanced themselves from Singh, yet the renaming of the camp raises more questions than answers.
Why rename the camp if they were not guilty or complicit in any wrongdoing? Many have argued that the sudden rebranding points to a deeper issue — a possible attempt to sweep controversies under the rug rather than confront them transparently. This renaming may appear as an effort to deflect attention from the unresolved allegations rather than address the core issues that have plagued the camp’s reputation.
Accountability and Leadership Concerns
While Manvir Singh’s absence at the camp might provide some distance from his scandal, other figures with equally troubling backgrounds have reportedly been welcomed at the retreat. Daljit Kaur, for example, whose family has been accused of years of abuse and misconduct, continues to have a presence at the event. The fact that individuals with such controversial histories are allowed to attend or even lead at the camp only adds fuel to the fire of suspicion surrounding AKJ and the Khalsa Foundation.
If the camp truly aimed to foster spiritual development and community growth, one would expect more rigorous standards for who is allowed to represent or participate in leadership. The decision to permit individuals like Daljit, despite their tarnished reputations, undermines the very values the camp claims to uphold.
A Pattern of Silence?
The renaming of Khalsa Camp California could be seen as a pattern of how religious organizations sometimes respond to controversies — with superficial changes rather than systemic reform. Instead of tackling the serious allegations head-on, rebranding often serves as a public relations maneuver to avoid further scrutiny. But in cases involving abuse and misconduct, silence and cosmetic changes only deepen mistrust and harm the victims who seek justice.
Moving Forward: A Call for Responsibility
The rebranding of Khalsa Camp to Sikh Retreat is not just a name change — it is a reflection of how AKJ and Khalsa Foundation deal with abuse and such crises. If the organizations are genuinely committed to the values of Sikhism, they must show accountability by taking tangible steps to address the abuse allegations tied to their events and leadership.
AKJ uk is full of perverts – if you speak up they hide and lie like the pussies they are.
AKJ uk is full of perverts – if you speak up they hide and lie like the pussies they are. They don’t know who their Father is. Just laugh at them