Punjab: Bajinder Singh, a self-proclaimed prophet from Punjab, has recently come under scrutiny following allegations of sexual harassment. Known for his charismatic preaching and claims of miraculous healings, Singh’s journey from a tumultuous past to a prominent religious figure has been both controversial and intriguing.
Early Life and Conversion
Born on September 10, 1982, in Yamunanagar, Haryana, Bajinder Singh hailed from a Hindu Jat family. His early life took a dramatic turn when he was incarcerated in connection with a murder case. During his time in jail, Singh encountered Pastor Shankar Bahadur, who introduced him to Christianity. This pivotal interaction led to Singh’s conversion, marking the beginning of his spiritual journey.
Rise as a Religious Leader
After his release, Singh immersed himself in Christian teachings and began his ministry in 2012. He founded the Church of Glory and Wisdom in 2016, rapidly gaining a following due to his assertive claims of performing miracles, including healing ailments like HIV and muteness. His sermons, often accompanied by energetic renditions of songs like “Mere Yeshu Yeshu,” became viral sensations, further amplifying his reach. Singh’s digital presence is notable, with his YouTube channel amassing over 3.74 million subscribers, showcasing his widespread influence.
Previous Legal Entanglements
Singh’s prominence has been marred by legal controversies. In 2018, he faced serious allegations of rape. A woman accused him of sexual assault at his residence in Sector 63, Chandigarh, claiming he exploited his position to take advantage of her. The Punjab police arrested Singh at Delhi airport as he allegedly attempted to flee the country. This incident led to widespread media coverage and raised questions about his practices and the authenticity of his miracle claims.
Recent Allegations
The latest controversy emerged when a woman filed a complaint alleging that since October 2017, Singh had been sending her unsolicited messages and making inappropriate advances. She claimed that during church visits, he would isolate her in a cabin under the guise of counseling, where he allegedly hugged and touched her inappropriately. Fearing his influential status, she refrained from reporting these incidents earlier. Based on her complaint, authorities registered a case against Singh under sections 354 A (sexual harassment), 354 D (stalking), and 506 (criminal intimidation) of the Indian Penal Code.
Public and Community Reactions
The allegations against Singh have elicited mixed reactions. Supporters defend Bajinder Singh, calling allegations baseless, while others raise concerns over exploitation, dividing Punjab’s Christian community on accountability.
Influence and Associations
Singh’s influence extends beyond his congregation. Various celebrities and political figures have associated with him, often attending his church events upon his invitation. These associations have bolstered his public image, attracting larger crowds to his gatherings. However, such affiliations have also drawn criticism, with detractors accusing him of using these connections to legitimize his controversial practices.
Ongoing Investigations
As investigations proceed, law enforcement agencies are delving deeper into the allegations against Singh. There is a growing call for a thorough and impartial probe to ensure justice for the alleged victims while safeguarding the rights of the accused. These investigations are expected to significantly impact Singh’s ministry and shape the broader discourse on holding religious leaders accountable in India.
Conclusion
Bajinder Singh’s rise from prison to religious leader sparks debate, as followers praise him while allegations raise concerns over accountability. As the legal proceedings unfold, they will undoubtedly influence public perception and trust in religious institutions across the region.
