Malay Indians denied bail

Courtroom becomes centre of drama

KUALA LUMPUR: Anguished wails and angry slogans erupted in a Malaysian courtroom after 31 ethnic Indians were denied bail on charges of attempting to murder a policeman during the November 25 rally in Kuala Lumpur.

Mothers of the young accused sobbed openly in court and fathers embraced their tearful sons after sessions court judge, Azima Omar posted the trial for January 14.

“We are not allowing bail,” the judge said. “The offences committed by the accused are serious.” Profanities were hurled at attorney-general, Abdul Gani Patail.

The mother of one of the accused swooned and was comforted by defence lawyer and Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf) leader P Uthayakumar who had called the November 25 rally.

“This is the clearest case of racism in Malaysia,” Uthayakumar told DNA. “The government is using a sledgehammer to swat a fly… They are trying to stifle us in the belief that our struggle will end. It’s a trying period, but our struggle will continue.”

Coming on top of “50 years of racism,” today’s decision would only inflame ethnic Indians further, he said. “We will lobby with countries, including India, the UK and US, and write to global bodies.”