|
KUALA LUMPUR: While not really being surprised, Hindraf leaders, however, expressed regret that their hopes to continue fighting for Indians community have been dashed.
V. Papparaidu, the brother of V. Ganabatirau, one of the five Hindraf leaders being detained under the Internal Security Act, urged the government to review its decision. "Our struggle has brought some good to the community." He said during his recent visit to the Kamunting detention centre, he was told by the Hindraf 5 that there was a move to outlaw their movement. "Vasantha Kumar told me that there were some within the movement who had used Hindraf for their own ends." He was referring to the gathering at the cabinet ministers' Hari Raya open house on Oct 1 where some 300 Hindraf members caused a stir when they turned up, clad in orange T-shirts. Hindraf national coordinator, R.S. Thanenthiran did not want to comment on the ban. He said their leader, London-based P. Waythamoorthy would be issuing a full statement today.
The following are more reactions: * Prof Emeritus Tan Sri Dr Khoo Kay Kim, Historian:
“It’s a difficult situation. In the first place, they are not legal and as such, shouldn’t be making so much noise. Secondly, they are not clear what they are fighting for. When historians study them in the future, they will be able to better judge the truth behind Hindraf’s many statements.” * Ragunath Kesavan, Bar Council Malaysia vice-chairman:
“Making them illegal will not make the problem go away. It’s important to address the issues raised by Hindraf, not Hindraf itself. Hindraf only became prominent because it championed the issues facing Indians. The MIC has been registered for over 50 years and Hindraf has been around for only two, but they took up the Indians’ problems.” * Tan Sri Ramon Navaratnam, Transparency International Malaysia president:
“You can ban an organisation but not an idea. It’s a step backwards for the country because it will discourage thinking and open debate, both of which are crucial to sustainable democracy. This strikes at the heart of the increased democracy the government has championed over the last few years.” * Tan Sri Abu Zahar Ujang, President Council of Former People’s Representatives:
“Their activities all this while have not been in accordance with the rule of law. They should not take the law into their own hands as it is not good for harmony in the country. “I’m afraid for our future generations and just want to see everybody living in peace and tolerance. Let’s look at things with more wisdom and not so narrow an angle. Live and let live.” - nst
 |
Subscribe RSS
The Blogs 
