Act Swiftly To Send Strong Message Against Hatred Gobind Tells Cops Ag

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Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo has urged the police and the attorney-general to act swiftly against those who incite religious and racial hatred.
“We cannot, and must not allow statements which are insulting to religion to remain without proper action,” he said in a statement today.
Gobind stressed that while there are legal provisions to address such situations, they are meaningless if not enforced.
“Action must be taken to send a strong message that we will not condone insults to any religion and that there are consequences for doing so,” he added.
Without mentioning names or specific incidents, Gobind said the issue was raised during last Friday’s cabinet meeting, where a decision was made that firm action must be taken in such cases.
“Police reports have been lodged, and I have been informed that statements have been taken from various individuals.
“Despite this, we see some repeating themselves, which further compound matters,” he added.
Religious tensions
The latest religious tensions were sparked by a controversial video featuring three Era FM radio hosts who seemingly mocked the Thaipusam kavadi ritual.
Following widespread backlash, the trio - who have since apologised - were suspended, and police launched an investigation into the incident.
MCMC also suspended the radio operator’s licence, a move some argued was excessive.
Amid the controversy, Muslim preacher Zamri Vinoth further fuelled tensions with a Facebook post likening kavadi bearers during Thaipusam to individuals who are possessed or intoxicated.
He also referenced the death of firefighter Adib Kassim during a riot outside a Hindu temple in 2018.
His post, now under investigation by both the police and MCMC, drew strong criticism from MIC deputy president M Saravanan and DAP lawmakers such as RSN Rayer.
Apart from challenging him to a debate, Saravanan, who described the preacher as brainless, called for his arrest under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act (Sosma).
Detractors have accused the government and authorities of dragging their feet when it concerns insults to religions other than Islam. - Mkini

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