Indian NGO backs Kaparmp

IASA slams PKR for issuing show-cause letter

KUALA LUMPUR: An Indian NGO has criticised the PKR for issuing a showcause letter to Kapar MP S. Manikavasagam over his outburst against Selangor Mentri Besar Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim and state exco member Dr Xavier Jayakumar.

Indian Athma Sakthi Association (IASA) president and founder M. Vasantha Kumar @ Vasan, said the PKR wanted to silence Manikavasagam who had voiced his opposition to the demolition of temples in Selangor.

He said IASA would support any politician who fought for the rights of Indians.

The PKR issued the show-cause letter after two video clips in midDecember showed Manikavasagam urging Khalid to resign over the demolition of an altar.

In another clip, Manikavasagam blamed Dr Xavier for the demolition of temples in Selangor over the last four years.

Vasantha said Manikavasagam had opposed the demolition of the Hindu altar at a house in Taman Seroja, Bandar Baru Salak Tinggi in November and visited a temple in Pantai Remis which had received a notice to vacate before Jan 24.

“Dr Xavier had not visited the house in Taman Seroja nor the temple in Pantai Remis. Being a member of the Non-Muslim Affairs panel in the state government, he has failed to stop the demolishment of six temples,” he said.

He said IASA wanted the PKR to withdraw the show-cause letter as Manikavasagam was only carrying out his responsibility as an MP.

MIC Youth chief T. Mohan said it was strange that the PKR was punishing the person who complained but no action had been taken against the Sepang Municipal Council’s enforcement officers involved in the altar demolition.