On this day last year, a sort of miracle happened. It was not Thaipusam, nor was there any concert by South Indian artistes. Yet tens of thousands of Indians converged, along with other Malaysians, at KL city centre. Quite a number were blocked by the police, while some were stuck at Batu Caves. Some did not even make it to KL.<\/p>\n
More than 30,000 people braved the threats to stand up for their rights. 69 were later arrested -some in restaurants, some just passerby. 5 leaders ended up in Kamunting. Many were treated with tear gas and chemical water. Photos from Jeff Ooi on police attacking people in Batu Caves made it around the world.<\/p>\n
It was a defining moment. It changed the general elections results. It wiped out MIC. It revealed the deep-grained injustice. It profited the opposition.<\/p>\n
After elections, MIC have benefited tremendously. Their voices are being heard a bit more often. They managed to get some allocations here and there. Promises are made on civil service intake, conversion of Tamil schools, mechanism for equity increase, skills training, entrepreneurship fundings etc. Cabinet committee is established. Dare anyone say this is not due to the rally? Deep in their hearts, they know its true.<\/p>\n
One year down the lane, what have the rally achieved? What is direct benefit to you – the man in the street? I hear from friends and contacts that more Indians are voicing out if they were treated unjustly – especially in government departments. More complaints. More arguments. More claims of injustice or discrimination.<\/p>\n
Now the focus of HINDRAF is to release the 5 detainees and to follow up on the 18 point memorandum. It has been outlawed, but Makkal Sakthi lives on. So, what have you done as a makkal?<\/p>\n
Are our youths more aware? Any changes in the community? Less drunkards around? More people helping the poor section of the community?<\/p>\n
I end this post with collection of photos, videos, and articles featured in this blog and others that cover the fateful day in the history of Malaysia. Will our history books ever mention this rally?<\/p>\n
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Few other blogs also write on the anniversary. Read (and see more) at:<\/p>\n
RaajaRox<\/a><\/p>\n MalaysianIndian1<\/a><\/p>\n