Call for Police Action Against Independent Preacher Zamri Vinoth
DAP MP RSN Rayer and Urimai Chairman P Ramasamy Double Down on Demands for Police Action
PETALING JAYA: DAP’s RSN Rayer and Urimai chairman P Ramasamy have doubled down on calls for police action against independent preacher Zamri Vinoth, who recently urged the national unity ministry to organise a dialogue between him and MIC deputy president M Saravanan.
Ramasamy Demands Immediate Legal Action
In a statement, Ramasamy said that instead of engaging with Zamri, the authorities should arrest and charge him for repeated hate speech. "If law enforcement continues to drag its feet, the public cannot be blamed for believing that justice in this country is applied unfairly," the former Penang deputy chief minister added.
National Unity Minister Expresses Hope for Dialogue Cancellation
National unity minister Aaron Ago Dagang expressed hope yesterday that the proposed dialogue would be called off. He said that debates focusing too much on religious differences could escalate tension and strain relationships among Malaysia’s multi-religious communities.
Rayer Urges Immediate Charges Against Zamri and Radio Hosts
Rayer, the Jelutong MP, urged the attorney-general and the police to press immediate charges against Zamri as well as three Era FM radio hosts who had sparked controversy over a video appearing to mock the Thaipusam kavadi ritual. "Immediate action is necessary to prove that there are no double standards in cases of religious mockery," he said.
Call for Calm and Police Reports
Rayer also urged all Malaysians to remain calm and continue lodging police reports nationwide against Zamri, as this is the only way to demand action by the authorities against him.
Background on the Debate
The debate was mooted following remarks by Zamri in a Facebook post about the Hindu kavadi ritual. He said the participants appeared "possessed and drunk on toddy." Saravanan had called for legal action against Zamri, accusing him of insulting Hindu practices and urging authorities to take action under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012. Saravanan later challenged Zamri to a public debate on Hinduism on March 23, a challenge which Zamri accepted.
Conclusion
In conclusion, DAP MP RSN Rayer and Urimai chairman P Ramasamy have emphasized the need for immediate police action against independent preacher Zamri Vinoth, who has been accused of hate speech and religious mockery. Their calls for action come as the country grapples with the consequences of Zamri’s remarks and the potential for further religious tensions to arise.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the controversy surrounding Zamri Vinoth?
Zamri Vinoth, an independent preacher, has been accused of making derogatory remarks about the Hindu kavadi ritual, sparking outrage and calls for legal action. - What are the demands of DAP MP RSN Rayer and Urimai chairman P Ramasamy?
Rayer and Ramasamy have called for immediate police action against Zamri, citing his repeated hate speech and the need to prove that there are no double standards in cases of religious mockery. - What is the response of the national unity minister to the proposed dialogue?
National unity minister Aaron Ago Dagang has expressed hope that the proposed dialogue would be called off, citing concerns that debates focusing too much on religious differences could escalate tension and strain relationships among Malaysia’s multi-religious communities.