A Mohali court in Punjab sentenced Bajinder Singh, a self-proclaimed Christian pastor, to life imprisonment on April 1, 2025, following his conviction for rape and sexual harassment stemming from a 2018 case. The court's decision, delivered by Additional District and Sessions Judge Vikrant Kumar, marked a significant moment in a case that has drawn considerable public attention and highlighted issues of sexual violence within religious contexts.
Singh, who is also known as the "Yeshu Yeshu Prophet," was found guilty under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code, including 376 (rape), 323 (punishment for voluntary causing hurt), and 506 (criminal intimidation). His conviction was announced on March 28, 2025, and he was subsequently sentenced to life imprisonment, which the court affirmed would last until his last breath.
The case dates back to 2018 when a woman from Zirakpur filed a complaint against Singh, alleging that he had lured her with promises of assistance in traveling abroad, only to assault her at his residence in Mohali. She claimed that Singh recorded an obscene video of her and threatened to release it on social media if she did not comply with his demands. The victim's lawyer, Anil Sagar, expressed satisfaction with the court's decision, stating, "This verdict will serve as a shield for other girls as well."
In a poignant reaction to the verdict, the victim shared her relief, saying, "I am very happy. I am thankful to the Judge, my advocate. The court has served justice to me. I am grateful for that." She previously demanded a minimum of 20 years of imprisonment for Singh, citing her fears that he could reoffend if released.
Singh's conviction was not the end of the story. Following the verdict, two additional women came forward with their own allegations of sexual abuse against him. They reported that Singh had used his influence to intimidate them into silence, claiming that he had made threats against their families. These new allegations have raised concerns about the broader implications of Singh's actions and the environment of fear surrounding victims of sexual violence.
Singh's legal troubles extend beyond the 2018 case. On February 28, 2025, another FIR was filed against him after a 22-year-old woman accused him of sexual harassment, alleging that he had isolated her in a church cabin and made unwanted advances. Furthermore, a video surfaced showing Singh allegedly assaulting a man and a woman in an office-like setting, which is currently under investigation. Authorities have clarified that this video may not be directly related to the ongoing cases against him.
The court's decision to impose life imprisonment reflects a growing recognition of the need for strict accountability for sexual predators, especially those who exploit their positions of power and trust. The case has also sparked discussions about the safety of women within religious institutions and the necessity for legal reforms to protect victims from intimidation and harassment.
In the wake of the verdict, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargajj, officiating jathedar of the Akal Takht, urged the Punjab government to ensure the safety of victims and take immediate action against Singh. He praised the bravery of the women who have come forward, emphasizing that their courage could inspire others to speak out against similar abuses.
Singh's case has resonated deeply within the community, not only because of the heinous nature of the allegations but also due to his status as a religious leader. His followers, who once revered him as a spiritual guide, have found themselves grappling with the reality of his actions. Many have protested his conviction, claiming that the allegations were fabricated, but the court's ruling stands as a testament to the judicial process's commitment to justice.
The victim's husband, who has been a steadfast supporter throughout the lengthy legal battle, expressed relief at the verdict, stating, "We struggled for seven years for this case. He used to mislead the court and traveled abroad while the court's orders prohibited him from doing so. We had faith in the judiciary, and today, we feel vindicated."
As the dust settles on this high-profile case, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight against sexual violence and the importance of creating safe spaces for victims to come forward. The legal system's role in addressing such crimes is crucial, and the hope is that this verdict will embolden others to seek justice without fear.
With the conviction of Bajinder Singh, the court has sent a strong message: that sexual violence, particularly by those in positions of authority, will not be tolerated. The outcome of this case may very well influence how similar cases are handled in the future, paving the way for a more just and equitable society.
