KUALA LUMPUR – Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri M. Saravanan took a surprise swipe at the federal government, saying that Indians feel unhappy given the strict standard operating procedures in place for Thaipusam activities.
Addressing devotees during the low-key celebration at the Batu Caves temple today, he made it clear that he himself and his colleague National Unity Minister Datuk Seri Halimah Mohamed Sadique had conveyed the concerns of the Indian community to the relevant authorities.
Ultimately, Saravanan, who is MIC deputy president, said the final decision rests with the National Security Council.
“I want to put this on record – the Indian community in Malaysia is very unhappy with the government’s decision,” he said.
“They are angry with the strict SOPs and say that I didn’t convey the message to the cabinet.
“I have made it clear to the cabinet and I’m making it clear here now.”
Later at the press conference, Saravanan admitted that the decision to impose strict SOPs for the Thaipusam celebration resulted in a lot of criticism of him and Halimah.
He questioned why the night market at Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman remains open and thousands of people are allowed to visit the Pavilion shopping centre.
“Despite their dissatisfaction, Indians are following the SOPs well in Batu Caves.
“There has been a lot of hate against me and Halimah on the internet,” he added. “It is fortunate Halimah does not understand Tamil,” he said.
On January 12, Saravanan was present at the press conference during which Halimah announced that the iconic kavadi processions for the Thaipusam festival are prohibited nationwide.
Announcing measures for the annual Hindu festival, Halimah said among others, the Batu Caves Sri Subramaniar temple, where the largest celebrations take place, will restrict its devotee attendance to 6,000 per day.
In a video posted on Twitter yesterday evening, Saravanan appeared to welcome “hundreds of thousands” of Murugan devotees to come and celebrate Thaipusam, regardless of “obstructions” made by “anyone”.
He said in the video that any expenses involved will be fully borne by the Sri Mahamariamman temple management and MIC.
The video was posted by Twitter user Dharshinee Suresh Kumar who said she is confused over Saravanan’s remarks as they go against the SOPs set by the government. – The Vibes, January 18, 2022
