The current imbroglio in MIC has exposed its waning influence and relevance among a demanding electorate.

News on the leadership tussle has failed to gain traction and more often than not invites ridicule as opposed to concern.

MIC has for long been condemned as a corrupt political institution, with its arteries imbued with the culture of violence.

Since the 2008 general election, the party has struggled to keep its head above water and as far as its harsher critics are concerned, it is in a political flatline state.

When this scenario was put forth to MIC deputy president Dr S Subramaniam, the dermatologist-turned-politician remained confident that the party could be nursed back to health.

Subramaniam said the party could emerge stronger in the aftermath of this feud.

"Although not a justification, most political parties in Malaysia have gone through similar episodes of functional and leadership lapses.

"We have seen them rise stronger, after a right intervention,” he told Malaysiakini .

Moving forward, Subramaniam, who is also health minister, said MIC would review and realign its mission to meet the aspirations of the Malaysian Indian community in the changing political dynamics of this era.

"We know the urgency and importance of this renewal for our continued relevance," he added.

Legacy issues

As a party which is seven decades old, Subramaniam conceded that MIC has issues pertaining to its legacy, "some contentious and some disconcerting".

However, he noted that the party also has a long history of committed service.

"I wish to assure that a majority of my party members have the moral fortitude to commit themselves to serve our charter responsibly to ensure the creation of a socio-economically progressive and vibrant Malaysian Indian community.

"This we shall achieve by a rejuvenation process of MIC. Once that is done, MIC' s relevance will be entrenched in the minds of Malaysian Indians. I am confident those moments are coming soon," he said.

As for the tussle between him and MIC president G Palanivel, Subramaniam expressed sadness that the issue had been brought to the public domain when it could have been resolved within.

"Palanivel should have utilised the avenues within the party over which he had control to resolve the issues raised after the contentious 2013 party elections .

"His failure to act after the Dec 5, 2014, ROS (Registrar of Societies) directive was another window for quick resolution lost.

"I have now initiated, at the request of the majority of well-meaning MIC members, to take urgent measures within the confines of our constitution and the Societies Act to bring a resolution to this crisis," Subramaniam added.