MIC deputy president M Saravanan has condemned controversial Muslim preacher Zamri Vinoth for his offensive comparison of Hindus chanting “Vel Vel” during Thaipusam to individuals who are possessed or intoxicated.
Saravanan, a devoted kavadi carrier, called the remarks irresponsible and deeply disrespectful, showing blatant disregard for Hindu sentiments.
“This is a clear violation of the 3R (race, religion, royalty) principles upheld by the Madani government. Such inflammatory statements threaten our nation’s harmony and must not go unpunished,” he told Malaysiakini.
He stressed that multiple police reports have already been filed and urged the police and the government to take swift, decisive action to prevent further provocation.
“Zamri’s repeated offences demonstrate a total lack of sensitivity and respect for Malaysia’s multireligious society. His words are a direct insult to the Hindu faith and its rich cultural heritage,” he stressed.
Saravanan also called on Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail to ensure Zamri is swiftly prosecuted, noting that this is not the first time he has insulted Hinduism.
“Each time he makes such offensive remarks, he hides behind weak excuses to evade accountability. This pattern must end. Firm action is necessary to uphold harmony and mutual respect in our society.”
In a social media post, Zamri claimed that people do not find it insulting when “Hindus chant ‘Vel Vel’ and dance as if they are possessed (macam orang kena rasuk) while intoxicated (mabuk todi).”
He argued that others are merely imitating Hindu practices, yet Hindus take offense when this happens.
“If you find it upsetting, then stop doing it so that others won’t follow. If you choose to continue, then don’t be offended (when others mock it). So pick one,” he stated.
Zamri also posted an image with the caption that read chanting Vel Vel does not lead to the loss of life like what happened to firefighter Muhammad Adib Mohd Kassim, who died during a riot oustise a Hindu temple in Subang Jaya, Selangor, in 2018.
He was commenting on the incident involving three radio announcers from Era FM who are being investigated over a Tik Tok video which featured one of them dancing while another chanted “Vel Vel”.
The announcers, who have since apologised, were also suspending pending investigations by the police and Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
