MIC takes Azmin to task for Unisel's failure to provide extra Deepavali off days

PETALING JAYA: MIC has taken Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Azmin Ali to task for failing to ensure that Universiti Selangor (Unisel) gives an extended Deepavali break to Indian students.  

MIC Youth chief Datuk Sivaraajh Chandran said the state-owned university has decided to have lectures conducted on Oct 17 and 19, leaving the students with a mere one-day break. 

"The management of the university should stop discriminating against Indian students and give them at least three to four off days so that they can return to their respective homes and be with their families," he said in a statement Friday. 
 
Sivaraajh said there was no justification as to why the university could not extend the holiday, as it had given one week holiday to students during Hari Raya and Chinese New Year celebrations. 

"Unisel vice-chancellor Datuk Dr Mohammad Redzuan Othman should listen to the appeal of the Indian students who are requesting for extra off days," he said.

He added that Azmin should be held accountable, as Unisel comes under the purview of the state government. 

"How (can) his Pakatan Harapan government promises to look after the welfare of Indians in the state in the future if they can't even empathise and give due consideration for Indian students studying in a state-run higher education institute? 

"This lack of respect towards Deepavali and also Indian students clearly demonstrate how their efforts are insincere and are a mere window dressing in an effort to win votes," he said.

Sivaraajh said a representative for the Indian students has submitted an appeal letter requesting a three-day break to the university on Oct 9, but the university has yet to respond. 

Deepavali, the most important celebration in the Hindu calendar, falls on Oct 18.