A Punjab court has sentenced self-styled pastor Bajinder Singh to life imprisonment in a 2018 rape case. Singh, known for his controversial evangelical practices under the banner of Yeshu Yeshu Pastor, was convicted of raping a woman who had visited his prayer center seeking spiritual guidance.
The case has been closely watched, given Singh’s influence and the increasing concerns over the misuse of religious platforms for exploitation.
Incident Details
- Victim’s Allegation: The woman alleged that Singh lured her under the pretense of divine blessings and sexually assaulted her in 2018.
- Police Investigation: After multiple complaints, police arrested Singh and launched a thorough investigation, gathering forensic evidence and witness testimonies.
- Court Proceedings: During the trial, the prosecution presented strong evidence, including testimonies from the victim and other witnesses, confirming Singh’s repeated sexual misconduct.
Court’s Observations and Verdict
The Punjab court delivered a landmark ruling, sentencing Singh to life imprisonment for his crimes. While announcing the judgment, the court stated:
“Religious faith should never be misused as a tool to exploit or harm individuals. The accused took advantage of the victim’s trust under the garb of faith, which aggravates the severity of the crime.”
The court further noted that Singh’s actions were not isolated incidents and stressed the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals from such predatory behavior.
Key Court Findings
- Singh was found guilty of sexual assault and breach of trust under religious pretext.
- The court emphasized the need to curb the misuse of faith-based institutions for criminal activities.
- Victim’s testimony and forensic evidence played a crucial role in the conviction.
- Judgment sends a strong message against religious exploitation.
Legal and Social Significance
This verdict underscores the judiciary’s role in protecting victims from abuse under religious cover. It highlights the growing legal scrutiny of self-styled spiritual figures who exploit vulnerable individuals. The ruling sets a strong precedent against the misuse of religious platforms for personal and criminal gains.
