Detectives investigating allegations of historical sexual assaults, have charged a Sikh priest in connection with the offences.

Seventy-year-old Makhan Singh Mauji from Northampton has been charged with 14 counts of sexual assault.

The charges relate to offences that occurred between July 1983 and July 1987, taking place at a number of places including at a Gurdwara in Hitchin.

Singh Mauji was a travelling Granthi, a ceremonial religious individual, whose role was to read the Guru Granth Sahib, which is the holy book in Sikhism in Gurdwaras.

Gurdwaras are the meeting places for people of the Sikh faith to assemble and worship.

Mauji also has had links to a number of other Gurdwaras including in Northampton, Bedford and Milton Keynes.

A spokesperson for Hertfordshire Constabulary said:

“Singh Mauji was a travelling Granthi, a ceremonial religious individual, whose role was to read the Guru Granth Sahib, which is the holy book in Sikhism in Gurdwaras.

“Gurdwaras are the meeting places for people of the Sikh faith to assemble and worship.

“Mr Mauji also has had links to a number of other Gurdwaras including in Northampton, Bedford and Milton Keynes.”

The term ‘Granthi’ originates from an individual who engages in the reading of the Guru Granth Sahib, the sacred scriptures of Sikhism, and conducts religious rituals. Within the community, these individuals are highly regarded and considered trustworthy.

This instance exemplifies how Makhan Singh Mauji leveraged his authority, position, and prominence to engage in sexual misconduct with women who, in all likelihood, had placed their trust in him as a respected religious figure.

Detective Inspector Justine Jenkins, of Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Major Crime Unit said: “I am grateful for the level of bravery these women have shown when reporting these incidents.

“If you want to report anything relating to this case, please do so via the Major Incident Portal (opens in a new window), or by scanning the QR code.

“Anyone wishing to report a sexual assault will always be treated sensitively and with respect by us. We recognise how difficult it must be but please be assured we have specially trained officers who can help you every step of the way.”

Anyone in Hertfordshire who has experienced sexual abuse or sexual violence can contact the Herts Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) for practical and emotional support. The centre can arrange face-to-face support, sexual health referrals, and provide forensic medical examinations for those who want them. This service is open to everyone – men, women and young people, no matter how long ago the abuse occurred.

To contact Herts SARC, call the 24/7 helpline on 0808 178 4448, email them at or visit the Herts SARC website (opens in a new window).