Indian MPs unite, slam AGC's decision on Muslim preachers

Four Indian MPs from MIC, DAP, and PKR have strongly criticised the Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) over its decision not to prosecute Muslim preachers Zamri Vinoth and Firdaus Wong.

In a rare show of unity, MIC deputy president and Tapah MP M Saravanan, Klang MP V Ganabatirau (DAP), along with PKR MPs P Prabakaran (Batu) and S Kesavan (Sungai Siput), held a joint press conference in Parliament to express their dissatisfaction.

The MPs rejected the AGC’s explanation of “insufficient evidence”, pointing out that numerous police reports have been filed against the duo.

They highlighted the existence of video clips, public remarks, and social media content that they said serve as clear evidence.

“These materials have not only caused unease among the public but also contain elements of insult and incitement that touch on racial and religious sensitivities.

“This decision is extremely disheartening and gives the impression of selective treatment when certain individuals are involved, thereby undermining the principles of justice and equality under the law that this nation upholds,” they said.

The MPs emphasised that the law must be applied equally, without fear or favour. Any act that insults, incites hatred, or sows division based on race or religion must be addressed decisively, regardless of who the perpetrator is.

“We call on the AGC to objectively review this decision based on the reported and available evidence, in order to preserve public trust in the nation’s justice system,” they added.

Azalina singled out

Saravanan also singled out Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Azalina Othman Said, expressing disappointment over how the matter was communicated.

“We are part of the unity government that supports the Madani administration, but we are facing various challenges with the Indian community.

“Ministers must be sensitive to issues like these, as they risk offending the feelings of the Indian community. Our hope is that the minister would engage in discussions with us beforehand to gain a deeper understanding of such matters.

“Sudden announcements like this have led to dissatisfaction among the Indian community,” he said.

On Tuesday, Azalina, in a written reply to DAP lawmaker RSN Rayer, said the AGC came to the conclusion not to prosecute the preachers after scrutinising the investigation papers from the police.

However, Azalina said the matter did not stop there, explaining that, unlike civil cases, criminal cases have no time limits.

She added that if there are any new developments, further investigation and review of the case can be carried out.

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