In a historic ruling, a Punjab court has sentenced self-proclaimed pastor Bajinder Singh. Evidently, to life imprisonment in the 2018 rape case that created a huge stir in the state.
Shockingly, the judgment comes after years of proceedings, in an important step toward justice for the victim.
Judge’s Decision And Sentence
Subsequently, the district court in Chandigarh gave its ruling. It involved convicting Bajinder Singh of rape and criminal intimidation under the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
Consequently, the life sentence reflects the seriousness of the crime committed against a woman.
She was allegedly captivated and assaulted under the guise of spiritual healing.
Apparently, Singh organized a large following as a religious preacher. Recently, he was arrested in July 2018 after a woman accused him of sexually assaulting her. Shockingly, at his religious host.
The woman described how Singh abused his influence to commit the act to which she had been subjected.
Correspondingly, leading police to file a case against him in accordance with Sections 376 (rape)and 506 (criminal intimidation) of the IPC.
Timeline Of Events
The case arose in 2018 when the victim, a devotee, went to the police and made a complaint against Bajinder Singh.
Later on, the arrest came after the police completed a thorough investigation. Henceforth, the suspect was then remanded to judicial custody.
However, he was able to post bail later and continued with his religious services despite serious charges against him.
During the trial, prosecutors presented strong evidence. Including witness testimonies and forensic reports, that supported the victim’s assertions.
Therefore, the court reached a decision to sentence the defendant to life. Allegedly, referring to a violation of trust and abuse of faith as aggravating factors.
Reactions and Consequences
The verdict has stirred major reactions from the public and all levels of the religious community.
Many of Singh’s followers remained steadfast and committed believers of his innocence. Eagerly, expressed surprise and disappointment.
Women’s rights groups and legal activists celebrated the judgment as an important victory in the fight against sexual harm. Specifically, harm by powerful figures.
Government Reactions
Government authorities similarly encouraged the world to be wary of people who use religious platforms as a means for personal gain. Henceforth, encouraging individuals to not fall blind to faith shown by a self-made spiritual leader.
Evidently, the case and judgment was a rebirth of the discussion of the accountability of religious figures. Clearly, there’s a need for stricter laws to prevent such things from happening.
What’s Next for the Case?
Now that a conviction has been achieved, Bajinder Singh’s lawyers are most likely to appeal to a higher court.
However, experts believe the strong evidence against him will make a judge overturning the conviction unlikely.
In the meantime, the victim and her family are relieved and stated that, after a long legal battle, justice has been served.
Organizations that promote women’s rights continue to stress the importance of victims reporting these crimes.
Moreover, to encourage victims to come forward despite the immense societal stigma that comes with it.
