KUALA LUMPUR – Gobind Singh Deo has called for swift police action over an incident involving an activist who allegedly stepped on a sacred Hindu symbol, warning that failure to act could heighten racial tensions.
The Democratic Action Party chairman said the authorities must respond decisively to the alleged desecration of the Thirusoolam (trident), a sacred symbol in Hinduism.
Gobind noted that the authorities had acted quickly in recent cases involving abuse of the Quran and said similar action should be taken in this instance.
“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.
“Similar firm action must also be taken against those involved in the act concerning the Thirusoolam. I urge the police to address the significant public concern and to take the appropriate action immediately,” he said in a statement today.
Gobind warned that delays in enforcement could aggravate tensions in the multiracial country.
“Failure to act in cases like these leads to heightened racial tension. 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 matter had been raised during a Cabinet meeting yesterday, stressing that while the government’s position was clear, enforcement agencies must follow through.
Calling for immediate action, Gobind urged the Inspector-General of Police to identify and charge those responsible for the alleged desecration.
“Malaysia can ill afford to slide into a state of lawlessness or racial unrest. The police must act now to restore public confidence and ensure that the peace we have built is protected from those who seek to tear it down,” he said.
Earlier, a police report was lodged against activist Tamim Dahri Abdul Razak, who allegedly stepped on and bent a Thirusoolam while describing the act as a “leisure activity” in a video that has circulated on social media.
The incident has sparked criticism and concern among members of the Hindu community, with many calling for firm action against those responsible for the alleged desecration of the religious symbol.– March 12, 2026