Ramalingam Selvasekaran, a 58-year-old Indian national, was sentenced by the Singapore High Court on July 7, 2025, to 14 years, three months, and two weeks in prison for sexually assaulting an 11-year-old girl in his provision shop located in Jurong West. The court convicted him of one count of rape and two counts of outraging the modesty of a minor.
Under Singapore law, men above 50 years are exempt from caning, so Selvasekaran was spared the 15 strokes of the cane usually given for such crimes; however, additional jail time was added as a substitute. Selvasekaran has consistently denied the charges and intends to appeal the conviction. The victim’s family expressed relief that justice has been served. Singaporean officials reiterated their firm commitment to protecting children from sexual offences through rigorous legal measures.
Harsh Sentence Highlights Singapore’s Zero-Tolerance towards Child Sexual Abuse
The crime occurred on October 28, 2021, when the young victim first visited Selvasekaran’s provision shop. She returned a second time to buy ice cream, during which the assault took place. The court found the victim’s testimony credible, despite defense claims of innocence. The judge carefully considered the evidence and the law, sentencing Selvasekaran to imprisonment with no corporal punishment due to his age.
The case demonstrated Singapore’s balanced approach to justice — ensuring punishment reflects the gravity of the crime while upholding humane treatment standards for offenders above 50. Authorities emphasised the case is a stern warning to all offenders and a reflection of Singapore’s priority to safeguard its most vulnerable citizens, particularly children.
Context: Singapore’s Strong Legal Framework to Combat Sexual Offences Against Minors
Singapore’s laws prescribe strict penalties for sexual assault and rape, particularly when minors are involved. The combination of jail time and caning has been a hallmark deterrent. However, exemptions such as the age limit for caning show consideration for human rights alongside firm justice. Cases like Selvasekaran’s serve as vital precedents reaffirming the judiciary’s unwavering stance on child protection.
The judicial system’s resolve operates within a broader context of increasing global awareness and legislative reforms aimed at combating child sexual abuse. The verdict also included denial of Selvasekaran’s requests to relax bail conditions pending appeal, underscoring the court’s seriousness.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The Logical Indian strongly condemns any form of sexual violence, particularly crimes targeting children — the most vulnerable members of our society. While stringent legal action is critical to deter offenders and deliver justice, equal emphasis must be placed on preventive strategies. These include comprehensive education, raising community awareness, and strengthening support systems for victims and their families.
Ensuring safe environments for children to grow, learn, and thrive without fear is a societal responsibility that transcends borders. Justice alone cannot heal trauma; collective efforts toward empathy, healing, and social education are essential.
