KRISHNA SINGH SHOCKS COATBRIDGE WITH 12-YEAR SENTENCE FOR DECADES OF SEXUAL ABUSE

In a chilling case that has sent shockwaves through the community of Coatbridge and beyond, Krishna Singh, a 72-year-old retired doctor, has been sentenced to 12 years in prison following his conviction on multiple counts of sexual misconduct spanning over three decades. The High Court in Glasgow heard how Singh, a once-respected general practitioner who was awarded an MBE for his medical contributions, committed a series of heinous acts against numerous women, including vulnerable groups such as pregnant women and girls under the age of 16.

Between January 1984 and 2018, Singh engaged in a pattern of predatory behavior that took place primarily at his medical practice in North Lanarkshire, but also extended to other locations including a police station and a hospital’s accident and emergency department. His actions included inappropriate physical contact, such as kissing and hugging patients, as well as touching their breasts and making lewd comments, all while exploiting his position of trust as their healthcare provider.

The charges brought against Singh were extensive, totaling 54 counts. These included 25 charges of indecent assault, 24 charges of sexual assault, and one charge of attempted sexual assault. Additionally, he faced four charges related to lewd, indecent, and libidinous practices directed specifically at girls under the age of 16. The court heard how Singh’s misconduct was calculated and manipulative, targeting women who sought his medical help in good faith.

During the sentencing hearing, Lord Armstrong emphasized the gravity of Singh’s crimes, stating, “You have been convicted after trial of 54 charges of calculated and manipulative sexual abuse of 47 women and girls in relation to whom, as a general practitioner, you were in a clear position of trust.” The judge highlighted that Singh’s abuse persisted over a period of 34 years, severely undermining the trust placed in medical professionals.

Lord Armstrong further noted that Singh’s actions included unnecessary examinations, which served to further violate his victims and erode public confidence in the medical profession. The impact on the victims was profound, with statements revealing that Singh’s misconduct caused lasting trauma. Some victims now harbor distrust towards healthcare providers, while others suffer from depression, low self-esteem, and anxiety as a direct result of his abuse.

In addition to the prison sentence, Singh was placed on the sex offenders register, marking a significant step in holding him accountable for his long history of misconduct. The case has left a lasting scar on the community of Coatbridge, raising awareness about the importance of safeguarding vulnerable individuals from abuse by those in positions of authority and trust.