Accused of taking the life of a New Westminster woman in a case of domestic violence, the man had made threats against her in the past. Remembered by friends as the 46-year-old dedicated mother Kulwant Kaur, she spent the majority of her time nurturing her eight-year-old son.
Close friend of the family, Gurpreet Rai-Sangha said, “It is my hope that her legacy shines through her true identity – the remarkable mother and extraordinary individual she was, having endeavored to provide a brighter future for her child.”
A wave of shock washed over Rai-Sangha when she learned that Kaur had been tragically stabbed to death within the confines of her home this past Friday.
“The news was unfathomable. One cannot help but wonder how such a thing could possibly occur,” expressed a stricken Tegpal Sangha, another close family friend.
Police have revealed that Kaur’s husband, 57-year-old Balvir Singh, is presently in custody, facing charges of second-degree murder. It has since been disclosed by CTV News through court documents that Singh had a history of menacing behavior and had made threats against Kaur before.
In October last year, Singh was convicted of threats made to cause death or bodily harm and was sentenced to a suspended term and twelve months of probation, in addition to various other conditions. In July 2022, he was charged with breaching a release order that prohibited him from contacting Kaur.
According to the Sanghas, Kaur’s circumstances had once been unknown to them. The Sanghas emphasize that individuals need to be aware of support resources available for victims of domestic violence.
Unfortunately, cases of domestic violence are not uncommon within our community, most notably among the Indian diaspora,” Rai-Sangha sadly acknowledged.
“Turning a blind eye is not an option. If you notice something, hear something, it’s crucial to report it,” she urged. The fear of being labeled “the wife who reported her husband” or the reverse, she noted, often acts as a barrier.
She added, “The societal pressure stifles victims from acknowledging the hostile environment within their own homes.”
She went on to stress that, “Many don’t grasp the breadth of resources available that can provide them with assistance.”
The Sanghas recall that Kaur had not been long in Canada, having arrived from India just a few years prior. In an effort to aid Kaur’s son’s future and cover the funeral expenses, they initiated an online fundraiser.
The outstanding response astounded them with donations accruing over $34,000. Sangha expressed gratitude saying, “The responses in the form of calls and generous contributions have been overwhelming.”
Recalling Kaur’s authentic, kindhearted nature, Rai-Sangha mentioned, “She endeavored tirelessly to provide the best for her son. Despite English being a language barrier for her, she sought out resources to ensure her son’s all-inclusive participation.”
