Bravo to IGP for stern warning

THE Inspector-General of Police was spot on when he issued a stern warning to all parties that firm action would be taken against those who stir up racial sentiments. The police, who are responsible for maintaining public order, have emphasised that there will be swift action to arrest those who intend to create unrest.

We do not need preventive laws for this, as there are ample provisions in the Penal Code giving police the necessary powers to arrest, depending on the classification of the relevant report.

Zakir Naik has apologised, and even if his sincerity is questionable, we must be magnanimous in accepting his apology.

But we must ensure that people like him, from any religion or race, are never allowed to threaten our racial harmony. Thus, this controversial person must leave the country or face possible charges in our criminal justice system.

There has been an avalanche of racial rhetoric by many people from all walks of life here, and many did so with utter contempt for others in the name of free speech. Zakir is merely the symptom of what is happening around us.

The police have their work cut out for them in deciding which elements are a breach of the peace and deliberately create disharmony and racial unrest.

The fact remains that there are always limitations to the notion of free speech. The police must always be seen to be fair and just whenever criminal investigations commence.

Firm, effective and swift action must be taken without fear or favour on those who make statements or conduct deeds that create racial unrest. They must be dealt with under the rule of law in the strictest interpretation available.

It is assuring that the IGP is stepping in decisively now, and this will in due course ensure a stable socio-political landscape for all of us to progress as one.

G. SELVA Ipoh