The soon-to-be launched Malaysian Indian United Party (MIUP) will not bow to any political party or pledge allegiance to other Indian-based parties such as MIC or PPP.

During a recent meeting with party members in Penang, MIUP leader KS Nallakaruppan made it clear that MIUP would not emulate the footsteps of the MG Pandithan-led Indian Progressive Party (IPF), which had recently forged "close ties" with MIC.

"Why should MIUP pledge allegiance or be subservient to anyone? What's the reason for us to do that?

"We will have our own political style and ways to deal with all issues, especially those pertaining to the Indian community. We are on our own," he said.

Nallakaruppan was responding to a question from Malaysiakini on whether MIUP would follow in IPF's footsteps.

After years of being at loggerheads with MIC president S Samy Vellu, Pandithan finally bowed to political pressure and buried the hatchet in April.

Overwhelming support

According to Nallakaruppan, MIUP's ultimate goal is to become the country's number one Indian-based party.

"A leading decision-making party in any political front, indeed," he said.

No doubt Nallakaruppan's confidence has been boosted by the Indian community's support for MIUP throughout the country.

The fledgling party has received at least 15,000 membership forms since it started to recruit members about two months ago.

It has received applications to form at least 50 branches in each state in Peninsular Malaysia, except for Kelantan.

Commenting on this, Nallakaruppan said he was moved by the overwhelming support and had not expected it.

It is learnt that MIUP has garnered tremendous support among Indian grassroots leaders, mainly disgruntled former MIC, PPP and IPF branch leaders.

MIUP will be officially launched at a grand function at Hotel Istana in Kuala Lumpur on Sunday.