Ban on HINDRAF

(Image taken from tunkuaisha.blogspot.com)

One year ago, all of us would not think that Indians would ever leave Samy Vellu's MIC. Indian community had always been loyal supporters of Barisan Nasional no matter what issues had been brought up by the opposition. MIC is the only one seen as the only hope for Indians.

However, all of Malaysians were shocked when a rebellious Indian group who call themselves HINDRAF took to the street crying foul over the unfair treatment to the Indian community which is probably sparked by temple demolition in Selangor. Many people criticised the group's vocal action and street protests that caused disruption of public harmony and business in the city centre. Five of its leaders were caught under the draconian act ISA and one of its leaders is currently on a self-imposed exile in London.

Since then, it was never the same anymore for the Indians. MIC was no longer seen as a fighter of the Indian community but just another lackey for UMNO. Hindraf is the new saviour for Malaysian Indians. Almost all of the Indians deserted MIC for opposition parties which are seen to be pro-Hindraf in the March general election leaving MIC with only a few parlimentary seats and even Samy Vellu was voted out. The shouting of Makkal Sakthi was heard everywhere. One of Hindraf leaders also won a state seat in Selangor on the opposition ticket eventhough he was locked up under ISA had never had a chance to campaign during the election.

Since the loss in the GE, MIC has been changing its tune to the Hindraf. Sawy Vellu had even called for the release of the Hindraf leaders under ISA. However, change is something unthinkable in UMNO. And to release those opposing UMNO supremacy is mission impossible. And now, the government has taken another step further, banning Hindraf and likened the organization to underground gangters, criminals and mafia.

Will the Indians come back under the roof of BN? Will MIC be successful in drawing back the support of the Indians? This is something unlikely to be seen in the near future.