In a tragic turn of events, 22-year-old Legha Pawan has been sentenced to 35 months’ jail for an unprovoked attack that led to the drowning of Jasbir Singh, 33. The incident occurred on the evening of 30 June 2024 at Clarke Quay, where both men, intoxicated, crossed paths.
The Incident
Legha, a student from India studying in Singapore, was out with friends when tensions arose. After consuming two cans of beer, he pushed Singh, a construction worker from India, into the Singapore River. Singh fell backwards and did not resurface.
Details of the Case
- Date of Incident: 30 June 2024
- Location: Clarke Quay, Singapore
- Sentence: 35 months’ jail
After the incident, Legha fled the scene, removing his shirt in an attempt to evade the police. Witnesses alerted authorities, but it was not until approximately 2 AM on 1 July that Singh’s body was recovered from the riverbed.
Court Proceedings
During the trial, it was revealed Singh was heavily intoxicated after grieving the death of his mother. Legha claimed he pushed Singh in self-defence, alleging the victim had damaged his bangle and insulted his mother. However, this testimony lacked supporting evidence.
Prosecution’s Argument
Deputy Public Prosecutor Jheong Siew Yin highlighted that Legha had acted recklessly. She stated that pushing a vulnerable individual was indefensible, and she called for a sentence of 36 to 40 months, arguing that both men’s intoxication did not lessen Legha’s responsibility.
The Judge’s Remarks
District Judge Janet Wang described Legha’s actions as disproportionate, remarking that his behaviour robbed Singh’s family of their sole breadwinner. The situation was further compounded by the fact that both men were intoxicated, raising questions about the responsibility of individuals when under the influence of alcohol.
This case serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences that can arise from unprovoked violence, especially when alcohol is involved.