MANY writers have voiced their opinions on this subject, with no doubt, good intent. It should be made clear that Sangeeta Persaud’s tragedy demonstrates a failure on us, as adults and parents, to protect our young and vulnerable children. Undoubtedly, poverty plays an important role in how we conduct our lives. It is well known in Guyana that, many people, especially in the rural areas, seek the “services” of pastors, pandits, moulvis, etc for “cures” for their illness. In some cases, these “services” work. However, resorting to vehement means during these “services” cannot be justified in any civil society.

It is indeed perplexing as to the rationale of the pastor who “treated” Sangeeta when he resorted to sadistic means to “cure” this young lady. While the pastor’s motive was perhaps good, his mode of operation was highly problematic. As a result, the pastor should be held accountable for his actions.

What have we learned from this awful experience?  Unquestionably, we have learnt that it is obligatory on our all religious figures, whether they are Christian pastors, Hindu pandits, or Muslim imams, to educate their followers that the only certain way to heal an illness is through a visit with a medical professional.

Undeniably, the authorities should institute immediate charges against the pastor at Christ Ambassadors Church who is exclusively responsible for Sangeeta’s untimely death in order to bring closure to this heartrending incident.

It is hoped that such an incident never happens again in any place of worship, whether it is a church,  mandir or a mosque.

Sangeeta Persaud’s appalling and avoidable death is one too many. May her soul find solace in Lord Krishna’s eternal abode.