KUALA LUMPUR: The planned debate between Datuk Seri M. Saravanan and preacher Zamri Vinoth has been called off.
The MIC deputy president said that he made the decision following advice from various parties, including the police.
“Following the statement by National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang and speaking with MIC president Tan Sri S.A. Vigneswaran and the police, I have decided not to continue with the debate.
“Some people have misinterpreted this debate. This is not a religious debate but against a specific individual who has made mocking accusations against Hindus and our practices.
“It was to educate him,” he said during a press conference in Brickfields this morning (March 11).
“I have a right to defend my religion when someone has made such false statements.”
The Tapah MP however, urged the government and police to take stern action against individuals who made such statements against any religion.
“Multiple police reports have been lodged against Zamri for years but no action has been taken.
“The silent majority of Indians are unhappy. They are hurt,” he added.
Yesterday, Aaron had expressed hope that the proposed dialogue would be called off.
He said debates over religious differences had the potential to create further tensions and worsen relations amidst a diverse Malaysian society.
The debate was mooted following remarks by Zamri in a Facebook post about the Hindu kavadi ritual. He said the participants appeared “possessed and drunk on toddy”.
Saravanan later challenged Zamri to a public debate on Hinduism on March 23, a challenge which Zamri accepted.
