PETALING JAYA: Enforcement agencies must act swiftly and decisively against those responsible for desecrating religious symbols to prevent racial tensions and maintain public order, says Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo (pic).
He urged law enforcement authorities, including the police, not to compromise on their duty to safeguard peace and uphold the law.
“This is a fundamental responsibility that cannot be compromised.
“Of late, however, we have seen a lack of action against those spewing racial hatred, which has resulted in flare-ups that directly threaten the stability of our nation,” he said in a statement on Thursday (March 12).
Gobind, who is also DAP national chairman and Damansara MP, said recent cases involving the abuse of the Quran were unacceptable, but commended authorities for acting swiftly to charge those responsible.
He also urged the police to address public concern and take immediate action against those involved.
“Recent cases involving the abuse of the Quran are totally unacceptable.
“The quick action taken by the authorities to charge those responsible is commendable and sets the necessary precedent that such behaviour will not be tolerated.
“Similarly, swift action should be taken against any acts committed against the Soolam, a sacred religious symbol of the Hindu community,” he said.
“I call upon the IGP to take immediate steps to identify and bring those responsible for the desecration of religious symbols to court.
Gobind warned that failure to act decisively in such cases could heighten racial tensions.
“We must maintain racial harmony and unity, and the only way to do that is by upholding and enforcing the law without fear or favour,” he said.
He added that the issue was raised and discussed at the Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, and that the government’s position on the matter was clear.
“This matter was raised and discussed in Cabinet yesterday. The government’s stance is clear, but enforcement agencies must follow through.
“The country can ill afford to slide into a state of lawlessness or racial unrest,” he said.
