MIC Leader wants Timur Laut OCPD to clarify delay of chariots during the Thaipusam celebrations

*Timur Laut OCPD to clarify why was there a delay in the Thaipusam Chariot procession yesterday*

The first dual chariot procession in Penang’s history on the eve of Thaipusam was supposed to be a well organised procession for all Hindu devotees. 

However, what was disappointing yesterday was the late arrival of both these chariots to their destination i.e. the Silver Chariot to Nattukotai Chettiar Temple at Jalan Kebun Bunga and the Golden Chariot to the Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Hilltop Temple at Waterfall Road.

Due to this, the procession which was supposed to end around midnight ended at approximately 3.30 am in the morning where both of these chariots arrived at the same time. This had resulted in a lot of devotees had to wait for very long to see the chariots and conduct their prayers *(a delay of about 4 hours)* .

What was more disappointing is that since the chariot was delayed for four (4) hours, *no devotees manage to get any food or water because most of the food provided had finished much earlier*. This *created so much inconvenience to the devotees, some who were very old and look exhausted*.

Upon checking, i was made aware that the schedule of the chariot arrivals at each checkpoint was based on information provided by the police. This was because the police were tasked in ensuring the success and safety of the chariot procession yesterday. 

Since there was a major delay of about four (4) hours, i would like to *seek a clarification from the Timur Laut OCPD why did this occur* as this has resulted in unbearable hardship to the Indian devotees who wanted to pray to Lord Muruga. 

Finally, it cannot escape my mind to think that since the Golden Chariot departed 2 hours earlier than the Silver Chariot, how did they arrive at the same time with the Silver Chariot when they were supposed to arrive earlier. 

This clearly shows that there is some form of favoritism in handling the Thaipusam chariot procession this year when the Golden Chariot procession and timing was extended without the agreement of all parties involved.

*_Dhinagaran Jayabalan FB_*

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