Petition drive for Indira Gandhi in conversion challenge draws wide support

A Muslim man signs the petition in the presence of M. Indira Gandhi (background) at the Thaipusam celebration, held at the Sri Subramaniar Temple in Ipoh today. – The Malaysian Insider pic by Wong Tuck Keong, January 24, 2016.More than 1,000 signatures for the Solidarity with M. Indira Gandhi campaign were collected from devotees and visitors to the Thaipusam festival, held at the Sri Subramaniar Temple in Ipoh today.

DAP's M. Kula Segaran said support came not only from Hindus, but also Muslims who said they stood with Indira in challenging the unilateral conversion of her three children to Islam.

"Members of the public also got a chance to meet and speak with Indira personally.

"We welcome the generous support and hope it will pay off in the bid for Indira's case to be heard in the Federal Court as well as to bring about important changes in legislation pertaining to parental rights and unilateral conversion of children's religion," the Ipoh Barat MP said.

Indira was at a special booth set up in front of the St John Ambulance Hall, along Jalan Raja Musa Aziz since 10am, to give out free food and drinks.

"I'm touched by the people's support and happy that many are coming forward to sign the petition," the kindergarten teacher said.

Kula and Indira are expected to collect more signatures in Penang tonight, where they will attend Thaipusam festivities at the Sri Arulmigu Balathandayuthabani temple in George Town.

Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng is also expected to attend the event.The stall set up for the petition campaign in support of M. Indira Gandhi, at the Thaipusam celebration, held at the Sri Subramaniar Temple in Ipoh today. – The Malaysian Insider pic by Wong Tuck Keong, January 24, 2016.

- TMI