Wanita MIC rues RM100 fine in cyberbullying death case

Wanita MIC has expressed disappointment over the RM100 fine imposed on welfare homeowner Shalini Periasamy, who is linked to the cyberbullying death of TikTok influencer Rajeswary Appahu (Esha).

Its chief N Saraswati said the fine amount was meagre compared to the magnitude of Shalini's offence, which led to the death of the victim.

"The penalty seems unfair and does not mirror the severity of a cyberbullying case's impact on a victim.

"Cyberbullying is a crime that can cause deep psychological impact on its victims, including mental torture, and in severe cases, death. Is the life of a person only worth RM100?" Saraswati (above) asked in a statement today.

The Kemelah assemblyperson called for existing laws to be reinforced so that heavier punishments can meted out against cyberbullies.

"We have to send out a clear message that cyberbullying cannot be tolerated, and the offender must receive punishments that match their crimes, no matter the situation."

Yesterday, Shalini pleaded guilty to a charge under Section 14 of the Minor Offences Act 1955, before Kuala Lumpur magistrate S Arunjothy. She was handed the maximum sentence of an RM100 fine under the provision.

The 35-year-old was accused of uttering offensive words intended to provoke anger at around 4.10am on July 1 through her TikTok account “alphaquinnsha”.

No compromise

Another suspect, lorry driver B Sathiskumar, 44, pleaded guilty at the Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court to one charge but claimed trial to another, in relation to the same case.

Sathiskumar was charged under Section 233(1)(a) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 for posting lewd comments under the profile “@dulal_brothers_360” at 10.12pm on June 30 with the intention of annoying others.

The offence is punishable with a fine up to RM50,000, up to one year’s imprisonment, or both; with an additional fine of RM1,000 for each day the offence continues after the conviction.

He also faces a second charge under Section 509 of the Penal Code for allegedly posting lewd comments with the intention to outrage the modesty of Esha’s mother, PR Puspa, 56, at 10.15pm on the same day.

The offence is punishable with up to five years imprisonment, a fine, or both.

Saraswati reiterated the call for the authorities to review laws pertaining to cyberbullying, to ensure the penalties serve as a deterrence to potential offenders.

"We cannot compromise on this matter. If the penalty for such an offence is a light one, bullies will continue to run the country down.

"The people's safety and well-being is of utmost importance. Justice should be served not only for Esha but for other victims out there," she said.

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