Author:
Publication: Malayindians.blogspot.com
Date: December 21, 2007
URL: http://malayindians.blogspot.com/2007/12/ethnic-indians-are-fourth-class.html
Commenting on the Nov 25 Hindraf rally, Paranjothy
said the 30,000 Indians took part to express their "frustrations and
anger" because the community has been "marginalised, oppressed and
ignored".
Paranjothy said Indians form the most neglected
group in economic terms, as shown by key performance indicators such as tertiary
education.
"(They) are treated as fourth-class citizens.
Where the Indians predominate over their fellow Malaysians is mostly in prison,
violent crimes, gangsterism, suicide and social ills. Government policies
have failed to improve (their situation)." On the government's hardline
stance against public demonstrations, Paranjothy said the government has practised
double-standards in the issuance of police permits. "I have participated
in street demonstrations and rallies organised by Barisan Nasional Youth,
spearheaded by Umno Youth, to handover a memorandum… over certain issues
that had taken place (abroad) which I believe would not have benefitted Malaysia.
"Did BN Youth obtain a permit to hold
the rallies or demonstrations?… Looks like the government is one-sided
when it came to the issuance of permits for public gatherings. BN started
this culture of street demonstrations and now others have emulated it."
