Suhakam condemns mob violence against person with disabilities

Treat people with disabilities with respect and compassion

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The Malaysian human rights commission, Suhakam, is deeply concerned with the behaviour of individuals taking the law into their own hands.

Recently, a heartbreaking incident occurred at Pasar Tani Padang Astaka Chukai, Kemaman Terengganu, where a 47-year-old victim – a person with mental disabilities – was viciously assaulted following his accidental collision into a stall.

The police have arrested six suspects aged 18 to 60 years to assist in the investigation, pursuant to Section 147 Penal Code for the offence of rioting.

The level of violence used was manifestly excessive, profoundly disturbing and humiliating: the victim was attacked bodily, mercilessly dragged on the streets and had spicy soup poured on him.

It is even more concerning that the perpetrators would behave in such a manner to a mentally disabled person.

The use of violence is never acceptable. The public or bystanders have the power to make a significant difference in preventing the escalation of violence by speaking out loudly against it while making it clear such incidents will neither be tolerated nor condoned.

Suhakam commends the police for the speedy action in arresting the suspects; and calls on them to expeditiously investigate the incident, and accordingly prosecute the wrongdoers, ensuring justice for the victim.

Malaysia is committed to upholding the rights of people with disabilities under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which includes the essential duty to protect them from harm as stipulated in Article 16 of the convention.

It is vital to recognise that every individual, including those with disabilities, has the inherent right to life and liberty, as decreed by Article 5 of the Federal Constitution.

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It is imperative that the authorities take the necessary measures to deter irresponsible members of the public from taking the law into their own hands.

Mob justice has no place in a civilised society that upholds the rule of law. It is crucial to remember that no one is above the law.

Suhakam believes it is essential for all government agencies, civil society organisations and the National Council for Persons with Disabilities to join forces in solidarity to protect people with disabilities by expressing our abhorrence of mob justice. We must raise our voices to create an environment where people with disabilities are recognised and treated with respect and dignity.

In line with the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia Act 1999 and Section 9(1)(i) of the Persons with Disabilities Act 2008, Suhakam, together with the National Council for Persons with Disabilities, have the important responsibility of promoting education and awareness on the need for respect towards people with disabilities.

Suhakam calls for the prompt cessation of such detestable behaviour by members of the public and calls for the imposition of appropriate punitive measures on those who take the law into their own hands.

Such actions are vital not only to uphold accountability but also to promote a culture that fosters a more caring environment that abhors violence within the community. – Suhakam

The views expressed in Aliran's media statements and the NGO statements we have endorsed reflect Aliran's official stand. Views and opinions expressed in other pieces published here do not necessarily reflect Aliran's official position.
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