August 22, 2025 – The RCMP has charged Dr. Sanjeev Sirpal with sexual assault following an incident that occurred in January 2025 at the Cumberland Regional Health Care Centre in Upper Nappan, near Amherst, Nova Scotia. The alleged assault took place during an emergency room assessment.
Sirpal was arrested on August 14, 2025, and is currently released on conditions, pending a November 15 court appearance. Sirpal is currently practicing in New Brunswick with an office registered at the Edmunston Regional Hospital. However, he has been removed from clinical duties pending the outcome of the legal proceedings.
Doctor Practiced Under Conditions in New Brunswick
Since March 2025, the College of Physicians and Surgeons of New Brunswick had imposed strict conditions on Sirpal’s license. These include:
- Conducting any intimate examinations (involving sexual organs or breasts) only with a chaperone present
- Providing an explanation to the patient of why he is conducting the examination, documenting the discussion, and documenting the identity of the chaperone involved
These conditions were implemented prior to the January incident, and the New Brunswick College has said they are not linked to the current charge.
In light of these restrictions, Sirpal’s application to practice in Nova Scotia was denied in March 2025.
Past History: License Revoked in Quebec
Sirpal’s license to practice medicine in Quebec was revoked in 2022 after it was revealed he failed to disclose his 2008 dismissal from the University of Miami for academic misconduct when applying to the Quebec College of Physicians.
Survivors of Sexual or Institutional Abuse: Your Legal Options
At Wagners, we understand how incredibly difficult it can be for survivors of sexual abuse to share their stories — even with a lawyer. We are here to help you navigate the legal process with compassion, professionalism, and care.
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual abuse by a medical professional or within an institution, it’s important to understand your legal options. You are not alone.
1. Filing Criminal Charges
Survivors can report the abuse to the police. A criminal investigation may lead to the arrest and prosecution of the perpetrator. While this process does not provide financial compensation, a conviction can result in significant legal penalties, including prison time.
2. Filing a Civil Lawsuit
In a civil lawsuit, survivors seek monetary compensation for the harm they have suffered. This can include medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and more.
3. Filing a Class Action Lawsuit
If multiple individuals have suffered abuse by the same person or institution, they may file a class action lawsuit. The group of survivors can come together collectively to seek financial compensation.
What Compensation Can You Receive?
At Wagners, we know no amount of money can erase the trauma of sexual abuse. However, a successful claim can support your healing journey and help you rebuild your life.
The compensation you may be entitled to depends on:
- Impact on your career or earning potential
- Medical or psychological treatment costs
- Impairment to romantic, familial and platonic relationships
- Severity and circumstances of the abuse
- Long-term effects on your quality of life
Speak with a Trusted Sexual Abuse Lawyer
We understand that sexual or institutional abuse can have a profound and lasting impact on survivors, often leaving emotional, psychological, and financial burdens that are difficult to carry alone. That’s why we are committed to providing trusted, compassionate legal support designed to ease that burden. Our goal is to develop a strong, effective legal strategy, and to fight to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve experienced sexual abuse, whether recently or in the past, you have the right to pursue justice. At Wagners, we are committed to helping survivors understand their legal rights and options. Contact a Halifax sexual abuse lawyer to learn more about your legal rights and options
Contact the experienced team at Wagners for confidential and compassionate legal guidance. We are here to support you.
Sources:
- NS RCMP: Cumberland County District RCMP charge one man after sexual assault at hospital
- Global News: Doctor charged with sexual assault in Nova Scotia
- CTV News Atlantic: Doctor charged with sexual assault at Nova Scotia hospital
- CBC News: Doctor charged with sexually assaulting patient at Amherst ER

