Imam spared jail after fatal road incident: In a heart-wrenching incident from Southall, a 72-year-old Imam, Qari Hazarvi Abassi, found himself at the center of a fatal accident that claimed the life of a 49-year-old man, Harvinder Singh. The incident, which occurred on May 4, 2021, has left the community in shock and led to a complex legal battle in the British courts.A Fatal MisjudgmentAbassi, on his way to lead morning prayers at the Abubakr Mosque in west London, encountered Singh lying in the middle of Lady Margaret Road. Despite warnings from passers-by and the apparent hazard, Abassi failed to slow down or take evasive action, ultimately driving over Singhs head and chest. Tragically, Singh succumbed to his injuries later that morning.A Startling DefenceDuring the subsequent legal proceedings, Abassi claimed that he mistook Singh for a bin bag, further asserting that he did not stop the vehicle as he thought the individuals warning him of the hazard were drunk. This defence, though met with scepticism, ultimately led to Abassis conviction for causing death by careless driving.Legal RamificationsDespite the severity of the offence, Abassi was spared jail time, receiving a suspended sentence of 36 weeks along with a 12-month probation period. Additionally, he was ordered to pay £1,800 in costs and faced a three-year driving ban. Judge Rebecca Poulet, KC, acknowledged Abassis remorse but emphasized the gravity of his actions, highlighting the vulnerability of Singh and the reckless disregard for his safety.Community OutcryThe incident has sparked outrage within the community, with many questioning the adequacy of the legal response to such a tragic event. While Abassi expressed remorse for his actions and accepted the jurys verdict, the loss of Singhs life remains a poignant reminder of the consequences of careless driving and the importance of road safety.Lessons LearnedAs the legal proceedings draw to a close, the case serves as a sombre reminder of the fragility of life and the need for greater vigilance on the roads. While Abassis actions may have been deemed careless rather than malicious, the devastating impact on Singhs family and the wider community underscores the need for heightened awareness and responsibility behind the wheel.
