Explain lack of action on threats against religious sites, AG told

 DAP chairman Gobind Singh Deo says threats to unilaterally tear down religious structures are serious, while lack of prosecution fuels perception of inaction.

DAP chairman Gobind Singh Deo urged the attorney-general to explain what he intends to do to change the growing perception of inaction on threats to demolish places of worship.

PETALING JAYA:

 DAP chairman Gobind Singh Deo has urged the attorney-general to explain the apparent lack of prosecution against individuals who threatened to unilaterally demolish places of worship.

In a statement today, Gobind said several issues have been raised on this topic, including questions involving the status of land on which some of these structures were built.

He said most state governments already had “robust” mechanisms in place to deal with these issues, and that this has helped resolve many of such cases peacefully and through due process.

“While efforts have been taken to solve these cases, there are yet certain quarters who threaten to demolish these structures, taking matters into their own hands. This has created serious concerns following which police reports have been made.

“Despite numerous police reports lodged, there appears to be a total lack of follow-up action. I have raised this matter in the Cabinet on numerous occasions. However, the final authority to prosecute rests with the AG.

“He must provide an immediate and clear explanation as to why there has been such a slow response thus far, and what he intends to do to change the growing perception of inaction,” Gobind, who is also the digital minister, said.

Yesterday, Malaysia Hindu Sangam said it was working closely with religious organisations and authorities to address issues involving Hindu temples and shrines, including cases requiring relocation.

Its president, T Ganesan, said about 35 religious bodies were collaborating to examine matters involving Hindu places of worship and to ensure solutions were found in accordance with religious practices and proper procedures.

He said discussions had also been held with authorities and temple administrators in cases such as those involving temples in Hulu Selangor to find suitable solutions, including consolidation or relocation, where necessary, through proper consultation. - FMT