Hindraf man told to enter defence

SHAH ALAM: A butcher charged with taking part in an illegal gathering, organised by the Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf) three years ago, was ordered by the Sessions Court yesterday to enter his defence.

K. Raghu, 43, is alleged to have taken part in the illegal gathering at the Sri Subramaniam temple in Jalan Besar, Batu Caves, between 1am and 8am on Nov 25, 2007.

Judge Hasbi Hasan ruled that the prosecution had established a prima facie case against Raghu. She set Nov 25 for the defence.

However, she acquitted Raghu on a second charge of using criminal force against a policeman and causing disturbance by damaging seven vehicles in front of the temple at the same place and time.

Hasbi said there was insufficient evidence to call for his defence.

Counsel S. Karthigesan appeared for Raghu, while deputy public prosecutors Idham Abdul Ghani, Hanim Mohd Rashid and Devinderjit Kaur prosecuted.