Controversial Pastor Bajinder Singh Faces New Sexual Harassment Allegations Amidst Viral Fame

Pastor Bajinder Singh, a self-proclaimed prophet from Punjab, has recently come under legal scrutiny following allegations of sexual harassment. Known for his viral "Yeshu Yeshu" videos and claims of miraculous healings, Singh's journey from a troubled past to religious prominence has been both controversial and captivating. Early Life and Transformation Born on September 10, 1982, into a Hindu Jat family in Yamunanagar, Haryana, Bajinder Singh's early life was marred by legal issues. He was incarcerated in connection with a murder case in the early 2000s. During his time in prison, Singh embraced Christianity, a transformation that would later define his path as a religious leader. Rise to Prominence After his release, Singh began conducting prayer meetings around 2012, focusing on evangelical Christian practices. His ministry, the Church of Glory and Wisdom, rapidly expanded, establishing branches across Punjab and attracting large congregations. Singh's services were characterized by energetic performances, during which he claimed to heal ailments ranging from HIV to paralysis through divine intervention. These events, often shared on his YouTube channel boasting millions of subscribers, contributed significantly to his widespread recognition. Celebrity Endorsements and Influence Singh's influence extended beyond his congregation. He frequently invited celebrities from the entertainment industry and local politicians to his church events, enhancing his visibility and appeal. These associations not only boosted attendance at his gatherings but also integrated him into the broader cultural milieu of the region. Previous Legal Challenges Singh's journey has not been without controversy. In 2018, he was arrested following allegations of rape by a woman from Zirakpur, Punjab. The victim accused him of sexual assault under the pretext of facilitating travel opportunities abroad. Additionally, families have accused Singh of financial exploitation, alleging that he demanded substantial sums for healing services that did not yield the promised results. Recent Allegations On February 28, 2025, a 22-year-old woman filed a complaint against Singh, accusing him of sexual harassment and stalking. According to the complaint, the victim and her parents had been attending the Church of Glory and Wisdom since 2017. She alleged that Singh took her phone number and initiated inappropriate conversations starting in 2020. The complainant further claimed that between 2022 and 2023, Singh made her sit alone in his cabin during Sunday congregations, where he allegedly hugged and touched her inappropriately. She also accused him of following her to college and threatening her with dire consequences if she disclosed these incidents. Legal Proceedings and Community Response Following the complaint, the Kapurthala city police registered a First Information Report (FIR) against Singh under sections 354A (sexual harassment), 354D (stalking), and 506 (criminal intimidation) of the Indian Penal Code. As of March 3, 2025, Singh had not been arrested, with authorities stating that the arrest would depend on evidence gathered during the investigation. In response to the allegations, supporters of Singh blocked the Nakodar-Jalandhar road near Lambhra, demanding a thorough investigation and claiming that the accusations were part of a conspiracy against the pastor. Financial Scrutiny In addition to legal challenges, Singh's financial dealings have come under scrutiny. In February 2023, income tax officials raided his residence in New Chandigarh and the church premises, following allegations of financial misconduct. Devotees had accused him of accepting money in exchange for promises of miracles that were not realized, raising concerns about potential fraud within his ministry. Public Perception and Media Coverage Singh's activities have elicited mixed reactions from the public and media. While his followers view him as a divine healer capable of performing miracles, critics question the authenticity of his claims and express concerns about the potential exploitation of vulnerable individuals. Media coverage has highlighted both his growing influence and the controversies surrounding his ministry, painting a complex picture of a man revered by many yet embroiled in legal and ethical disputes. Pastor Bajinder Singh's trajectory from a prison inmate to a prominent religious figure underscores the multifaceted nature of spiritual leadership in contemporary society. His ability to attract vast audiences through claims of miraculous healings and his engagement with public figures have solidified his status within certain communities. However, the serious allegations of sexual harassment and financial impropriety present significant challenges to his ministry's credibility. As investigations proceed, the outcomes will likely impact not only Singh's personal standing but also the broader discourse on accountability and ethics among self-styled spiritual leaders.