Gobind urges cops to swiftly identify, charge those responsible for desecration of religious symbols

Gobind Singh Deo, Malaysia's Digital Minister and DAP national chairman, questions the lack of action against those spewing racial hatred, which has resulted in flare-ups that directly threaten the stability of the nation.

PUTRAJAYA: A senior Cabinet minister is calling on the police to take swift action against those who abuse religious symbols, saying the lack of action against those spewing racial hatred has resulted in flare-ups that directly threaten Malaysia’s stability.

In a statement today, Digital Minister and DAP national chairman Gobind Singh Deo said the police are duty-bound to keep peace and maintain public order.

“This is a fundamental responsibility. Of late, however, we have seen a lack of action against those spewing racial hatred, which has resulted in flare-ups that directly threaten the stability of our nation.

“Recent cases involving the abuse of the Quran are totally unacceptable. The quick action taken by the authorities to charge those responsible is commendable and sets the necessary precedent that such behaviour will not be tolerated.

“Similarly, swift action should be taken against any acts committed against the soolam (trident), a sacred religious symbol of the Hindu community. I urge the police to address the significant public concern and immediately take the appropriate action,” he said.

Gobind, who is also the Damansara MP, said failure to act in such cases could heighten racial tension.

“We must maintain racial harmony and unity, and the only way to do that is by upholding and enforcing the law without fear or favour.

“This matter was raised and discussed in the Cabinet yesterday. The government’s stance is clear, but the enforcement agencies must follow through.”

Gobind also called on Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Khalid Ismail to take immediate steps to identify and bring those responsible for the desecration of religious symbols to court.

“Malaysia can ill afford to slide into a state of lawlessness or racial unrest. The police must act now to restore public confidence and ensure that the peace we have built is protected from those who seek to tear it down.”

Another DAP lawmaker, RSN Rayer, had also questioned Khalid Ismail and Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail about the measures taken against so-called activist Tamim Dahri Abdul Razak, who allegedly stepped on a soolam in Langkawi.

Tamim, however, claimed he was unaware he had allegedly desecrated a soolam, saying he mistook it for a “rusty piece of metal”. Tamim and several others have been vocal against the construction of Hindu temples on land belonging to others.

In a statement, the Jelutong MP said: “The IGP and home minister must explain what action has been taken so far. Why the delay?”

“The Federal Constitution and the Penal Code must protect and preserve the sanctity of all religions.”