Prayer or Political Play? Saraswathy Criticizes MIC’s Batu Caves Event

KUALA LUMPUR — In a strongly worded statement, Senator Saraswathy Kandasami, Vice President of Keadilan and Deputy Minister of the Ministry of National Unity, has publicly criticized the Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC) for organizing a special prayer gathering at the Batu Caves Murugan Temple on January 6, 2025. The event, organized to express solidarity with Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak in his ongoing appeal against a High Court decision, has raised questions about the appropriateness of using religious spaces for political purposes.

The gathering, initially planned to be held at the Palace of Justice in Putrajaya, was shifted to the Batu Caves Murugan Temple, which has drawn heavy criticism from political leaders and religious figures. The event has been portrayed by MIC as a democratic right to show support for the former Prime Minister, but Saraswathy has called into question whether it is appropriate to politicize such sacred spaces.

“Temples, mosques, and other places of worship are meant to be neutral grounds focused on spiritual, social, and community activities,” Saraswathy emphasized. “Religious spaces should not be used as platforms for political agendas, as it undermines their sanctity and could create division within the community.”

Saraswathy, a respected figure in Malaysian politics, pointed out that religious leaders and management committees overseeing places of worship have a responsibility to preserve the neutrality of these spaces. She warned that such political gatherings could alienate certain groups, particularly in a multiracial society like Malaysia, where unity and harmony are of utmost importance.

The MIC’s Deputy President, Datuk Seri M. Saravanan, defended the event, stating that it was within the party’s democratic rights to show solidarity with Najib. He emphasized that the event was a peaceful expression of support, but Saraswathy challenged the wisdom of holding it in a religious setting.

“The line between faith and politics must be maintained,” Saraswathy stated. “We cannot allow political expressions to overshadow the primary purpose of places of worship — to unite, uplift, and serve the community spiritually.”

As the debate heats up, both political figures and religious leaders are calling for greater responsibility and sensitivity in the management of sacred spaces. Saraswathy’s statement has added fuel to the controversy, with many questioning the balance between democratic rights and the preservation of the sanctity of religious spaces.

In conclusion, Saraswathy urged leaders across the political spectrum to act with greater responsibility, ensuring that places of worship remain untouched by political motives and are reserved for their true purpose — fostering unity, peace, and spiritual growth.