Friday, October 3, 2008

Promises To Keep, Temple demolition in Ampang

After the last general election, the Selangor State run Pakatan Rakyat promise not to demolish any temples or places of worship. But the recent demolition of the Sri Maha kaliamman temple in Ampang Jaya has caused furore among the Indians.
The news report has it that the temple was built in a forest reserve. So does it obstruct anything that the council must take action immediately without consulting the state government. The Selangor State Executive Councilor in charge of temple affairs, Dr. Xavier Jayakumar decribed the incident as "this is a small issue compared with more serious problems affecting the Indian community. Why dont we look at the bigger picture". this drew the wrath of the Indian community and religious group leader.
It is time Dr Jayakumar and his Pakatan team members realise that election manifesto's and promises are meant to keep ie "promises to keep" not just to win elections.
The Indians voted for Pakatan bcos they were upset with the BN Govt over the demolition of the Hindu temple in Padang Jawa just days before deepavalli- showing disrespect to the Hindu Religion.
Now the Pakatan government in Selangor has started the Temple demolition. The Indian community will no longer buy stories like "According to our guidelines, local authorities must seek permission from the executive council before demoloshing any place of worship"
Dr Xavier is the representative of the indian community, although not a Hindu he should be responsible enough to protect all places of worship regardless of religion.