Don’t practise caste politics, Makkal Sakthi advises parties

IPOH: Makkal Sakthi Party described the statement by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak to reject the caste system in political parties as timely.

Its president Datuk R.S. Thanenthiran said: “It is an appropriate message for the parties to stop practising the caste system. I do not know who are the groups responsible but everyone should heed the advice of the prime minister.”

Thanenthiran noted Najib came up with statement after he learned of the existence of the caste system in political parties.

“The community must strongly unite and do away with the caste system, which will not benefit anyone,” he told reporters at the Perak Makkal Sakthi Party Deepavali “Open House” here yesterday.

Najib had in his speech at the opening of the MIC ‘s 67th general assembly on Friday asked the party not to exclude members who are from different political camps or castes.

He also stressed the party could be excluded from the mainstream should it continue to harp on the differences.

On another subject, Thanenthiran made a plea to the Indian community, especially Hindus, to refrain from consuming alcohol on Deepavali day.

“It is a joyous occasion and we have to celebrate in a harmonious atmosphere rather then bringing problems to homes,” he added.