MARKHAM, Canada (Diya TV) — A Toronto man who ran religious study sessions out of homes in Pickering and Markham has been charged with seven counts of sexual assault, York Regional Police announced Monday.

Investigators with the York Regional Police Special Victims Unit say the suspect, identified as Pravin Ranjan, 44, allegedly sexually assaulted two victims during what were described as “spiritual study sessions” at residential properties in the two Greater Toronto Area communities.

According to a police news release, the first victim reported being assaulted six separate times between January 2021 and October 2024 during sessions that took place in both Pickering and Markham. A second victim later came forward, alleging they were assaulted by Ranjan in December 2024.

Police said the suspect was running religious studies out of a private residence in Pickering when the incidents occurred. Authorities believe there may be additional victims who have yet to come forward.

“Investigators believe there could be more victims and are urging anyone with information to contact the York Regional Police Special Victims Unit,” police stated in the release.

Ranjan, a Toronto resident, is charged with seven counts of sexual assault. His court date is still pending at the time of publication.

York police are also releasing a photograph of the accused, hoping it may encourage any other victims to come forward. The department is reminding the public that there is no statute of limitations on reporting sexual assault in Canada. Survivors can choose to report incidents regardless of when they occurred.

In their statement, police emphasized that sexual assault includes any non-consensual contact of a sexual nature. Authorities also provided resources for survivors, including York Region Victim Services and the Women’s Support Network of York Region, and encouraged people to seek support whether or not they are ready to report an incident.

York police have not released further details on the religious organization or the nature of the study sessions. The investigation remains active.