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HAF Urges Malaysian Government to Engage HINDRAF Leaders

The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) expressed concern over the Malaysian government's ordering a review board to consider the case of Hindu Rights Action Force (HINDRAF) leader P. Uthayakumar just after his release from the Kamunting Detention Centre. "Such a review seems both unlawful and unconstitutional," said Ishani Chowdhury, Director of Public Policy, HAF.

"We urge the Malaysian government to act quickly and productively to resolve outstanding issues with Malaysian Hindus and engage HINDRAF leaders in finding a lasting solution to address the disparities faced by the Hindu community."

Mr. Uthayakumar had been incarcerated since late 2007 under Malaysia's draconian Internal Security Act, a law which allows for arrest and incarceration without the need for trial. "If the Review Board orders the re-arrest of Uthayakumar, the Malaysian government will have effectively reneged on promises to deal fairly with the Hindu community," furthered Chowdhury, "It will be a major setback not just for the Hindu minority, but all minorities in Malaysia".