08/12: Hindraf an extremist group and threat to national security, says Najib

The Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf) is an extremist group whose actions have gone overboard to the extent of threatening national security, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said today.

“Hindraf has exceeded the limits, many people say Hindraf has gone beyond the tolerable limit... they have violated the law,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

He, however, said the government is leaving it to the relevant authorities to take appropriate action as provided for under the law against Hindraf leaders and supporters.

“If there is any evidence that Hindraf is involved in violence and terrorism, the government will not hesitate to take harsh action,” he told a press conference on the final day of the five-day Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace 2007 Exhibition.

Najib said the warning was not only confined to Hindraf but also to all extremist groups, be they Islamic, Christian or Hindu religious groups.

“Anyone involved in activities linked to violence and terrorism must accept that action can be taken against them just like other extremist groups.

“Hindraf is no different than other groups. “I am not saying Hindraf is a terrorist movement but if it has links with terrorist organisations, then I suggest the same legal action be taken (similar to what has been taken against other terrorist and militant organisations),” he added.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Bahawi yesterday ordered the police to closely monitor Hindraf’s activities including its links with international terrorist movements.

Abdullah, who is also Internal Security Minister, issued the order following the revelation by Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Musa Hassan that there were signs of Hindraf trying to seek support from terrorist groups.

Musa had said besides attempting to solicit help and support from foreign countries and terrorist movements, Hindrau had also set up a fund to finance their activities.

Hindraf leaders and supporters had condemned the government, alleging that the Malaysian government was carrying out ethnic cleansing on the Indians in the country during the Nov 25 street protest in Kuala Lumpur.