Ethnic Indian leader sues Malaysian govt on terror link charge

An ethnic Indian leader, detained by Malaysia for leading a massive anti-government protest, on Friday filed a $30.5 million defamation suit against the state and its two high-ranking officials for allegedly linking him with terrorist groups.

Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf) leader P Uthayakumar, who is currently in detention under the draconian Internal Security Act (ISA), said allegations by police chief Tan Sri Musa Hassan and Attorney General Tan Sri Abdul Gani Patail that he had terrorist links were “fabricated and politically motivated.”

Uthayakumar and four other ethnic Indian leaders are being held at the Kamunting centre since December 13 under ISA for leading a massive street protest against the alleged marginalisation of the community.

The Government claimed that they were a threat to national security. Uthayakumar said the officials made the allegations more than 10 days after the November 25 protest last year that was organised by Hindraf and alleged that it is an attempt to destroy his credibility and reputation.