ISA Detention is Unlawful

Karpal said the court threw out the defence argument that the detention was unlawful because there had been no 60-day investigation period beforehand.

“I think their detention has far-reaching consequences. You are placing dictatorial powers in the hands of the internal security minister,” he said.

Hindraf infuriated the government by mounting a mass rally last November alleging discrimination against minority ethnic Indians in Malaysia.

Hindraf members immediately condemned the decision and vowed to punish the ruling Barisan Nasional coalition in March 8 general elections.

“We are clearly disappointed with the ruling. On the 100th day of detention (on March 22), Hindraf will organise a worldwide protest,” P Waythamoorthy, a brother of one of the detainees, told AFP from London.

Hindraf coordinator R Thanenthiran said many Indian Malaysians would cast protest vote in the polls, which are expected to reduce the government’s large majority.

“We will teach the Prime Minister Adullah Ahmad Badawi a lesson in the election. We will reject his government,” he said.

Source by MalaysiaKini