Latest news with #Velan
The Sun
17-07-2025
- The Sun
Calls for tougher measures after alleged infant rape
PETALING JAYA: A crime almost too horrific to name – a three-month-old infant allegedly raped. As public outrage deepens, a sociologist is calling for chemical castration to be introduced in Malaysia, arguing that the justice system must respond with equal force to the unimaginable violence inflicted on children. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia senior lecturer in anthropology and sociology Dr Velan Kunjuraman said such a measure reflects both the severity of such offences and growing public frustration at their recurrence. Chemical castration involves administering medication to suppress libido and sexual activity without surgically removing sexual organs. Dr Velan said the measure is not unprecedented, with several countries having introduced it in response to similar crimes. 'South Korea became one of the first Asian countries to introduce chemical castration for repeat child sex offenders in 2011. 'Poland and Russia have provisions for mandatory chemical castration in certain child abuse cases. In the United States, states such as California and Florida permit it for repeat offenders. Indonesia also introduced it as part of its Criminal Code amendments in 2016 following a series of brutal child rape cases,' he said. Malaysia, to date, has not adopted chemical castration. Current punishments focus on imprisonment, caning and mandatory registration in the sex offender registry. 'Although the idea has periodically surfaced in public discourse and even in Parliament, especially following high-profile cases of child sexual abuse, it remains unlegislated,' Velan said. From a sociological perspective, he said, chemical castration could serve both symbolic and functional purposes in preventing abuse. 'Symbolically, it sends a strong message that society will not tolerate the sexual exploitation of children. 'Functionally, for repeat offenders or those with diagnosed sexual disorders, such a measure may reduce the risk of reoffending.' However, Velan stressed that any implementation must be grounded in a legally sound and ethically robust framework. 'It would need to be carefully regulated, medically supervised and embedded within a rights-based legal structure to ensure justice and due process are upheld.' He also warned against viewing punitive measures as the sole solution, urging society to confront the deeper sociological roots of such crimes. Commenting on the case revealed by Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail on Wednesday, Velan described it as both a criminal act and a profound societal tragedy. 'This heartbreaking and deeply disturbing case involving the sexual abuse of a three-month-old infant is not only a criminal act – it's a profound social tragedy. 'From a sociological lens, it reveals a society grappling with deep-rooted moral decay and social deviance.' Despite Malaysia's religious and culturally conservative values, Velan said the persistence – and apparent escalation – of such heinous crimes signals a breakdown in moral and social safeguards. 'The incident exemplifies anomie, a term coined by Emile Durkheim, to describe the collapse of societal norms and moral guidance. 'When individuals become disconnected from communal values, they may be drawn to deviant subcultures, particularly online, that normalise or even commodify extreme sexual violence.' To address this, Velan called for multi-layered reforms – from families and schools to community institutions and national policies. 'Families must be supported through parenting education, mental health services and economic stability. 'Schools should include comprehensive values and sexuality education to foster responsible digital behaviour from a young age. 'Community groups, religious institutions and civil society must work together to rebuild a culture of care, vigilance and moral accountability.' Velan also urged stronger action on digital literacy and online safety. 'A national strategy is urgently needed to regulate online content. This includes stricter surveillance of child exploitation networks and public education campaigns on the dangers of the dark web,' he said.
The Sun
17-07-2025
- The Sun
Call for chemical castration after infant rape case in Malaysia
PETALING JAYA: A crime almost too horrific to name – a three-month-old infant allegedly raped. As public outrage deepens, a sociologist is calling for chemical castration to be introduced in Malaysia, arguing that the justice system must respond with equal force to the unimaginable violence inflicted on children. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia senior lecturer in anthropology and sociology Dr Velan Kunjuraman said such a measure reflects both the severity of such offences and growing public frustration at their recurrence. Chemical castration involves administering medication to suppress libido and sexual activity without surgically removing sexual organs. Dr Velan said the measure is not unprecedented, with several countries having introduced it in response to similar crimes. 'South Korea became one of the first Asian countries to introduce chemical castration for repeat child sex offenders in 2011. 'Poland and Russia have provisions for mandatory chemical castration in certain child abuse cases. In the United States, states such as California and Florida permit it for repeat offenders. Indonesia also introduced it as part of its Criminal Code amendments in 2016 following a series of brutal child rape cases,' he said. Malaysia, to date, has not adopted chemical castration. Current punishments focus on imprisonment, caning and mandatory registration in the sex offender registry. 'Although the idea has periodically surfaced in public discourse and even in Parliament, especially following high-profile cases of child sexual abuse, it remains unlegislated,' Velan said. From a sociological perspective, he said, chemical castration could serve both symbolic and functional purposes in preventing abuse. 'Symbolically, it sends a strong message that society will not tolerate the sexual exploitation of children. 'Functionally, for repeat offenders or those with diagnosed sexual disorders, such a measure may reduce the risk of reoffending.' However, Velan stressed that any implementation must be grounded in a legally sound and ethically robust framework. 'It would need to be carefully regulated, medically supervised and embedded within a rights-based legal structure to ensure justice and due process are upheld.' He also warned against viewing punitive measures as the sole solution, urging society to confront the deeper sociological roots of such crimes. Commenting on the case revealed by Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail on Wednesday, Velan described it as both a criminal act and a profound societal tragedy. 'This heartbreaking and deeply disturbing case involving the sexual abuse of a three-month-old infant is not only a criminal act – it's a profound social tragedy. 'From a sociological lens, it reveals a society grappling with deep-rooted moral decay and social deviance.' Despite Malaysia's religious and culturally conservative values, Velan said the persistence – and apparent escalation – of such heinous crimes signals a breakdown in moral and social safeguards. 'The incident exemplifies anomie, a term coined by Emile Durkheim, to describe the collapse of societal norms and moral guidance. 'When individuals become disconnected from communal values, they may be drawn to deviant subcultures, particularly online, that normalise or even commodify extreme sexual violence.' To address this, Velan called for multi-layered reforms – from families and schools to community institutions and national policies. 'Families must be supported through parenting education, mental health services and economic stability. 'Schools should include comprehensive values and sexuality education to foster responsible digital behaviour from a young age. 'Community groups, religious institutions and civil society must work together to rebuild a culture of care, vigilance and moral accountability.' Velan also urged stronger action on digital literacy and online safety. 'A national strategy is urgently needed to regulate online content. This includes stricter surveillance of child exploitation networks and public education campaigns on the dangers of the dark web,' he said.
The Hindu
13-06-2025
- Politics
- The Hindu
Supreme Court issues notice to Karnataka seeking response on ‘Thug Life' ban
NEW DELHI The Supreme Court on Friday sought the State of Karnataka to respond to a petition seeking to ensure the safe and unimpeded screening of Kamal Haasan's Tamil movie Thug Life in the State. A Vacation Bench headed by Justice PK Mishra was also asked by petitioner, M. Mahesh Reddy, represented by advocate Athenam Velan, to take action against elements who have issued threats and incited violence against theatres and the makers of the film. Issuing notice to the States, the court scheduled the case on Tuesday. The Bench recorded Mr. Velan's submission that a duly CBFC-certified Tamil feature film was not allowed to be screened in theatres in Karnataka. 'The so-called ban under threat of violence stems not from any lawful process but from a deliberate campaign of terror, including explicit threat of arson against cinema halls, incitement of large-scale violence targeting linguistic minorities,' Mr. Velan argued. Earlier this week, the petitioner, a Bengaluru resident, had sought urgent listing, saying 'fringe elements' were threatening arson against theatres which screen the film. Mr. Velan had said the move to appeal the apex court was necessitated by the fact that the Karnataka High Court had 'distressingly appeared to prioritise appeasement' in proceedings seeking the judicial protection of the fundamental right to free speech and expression. 'Instead of a clear directive to the State to stop the illegal threats and protect a certified film's exhibition – fundamental to restoring law and order – the discussion reportedly focused on whether Mr. Kamal Haasan should apologise to the very fringe elements intimidating him and threatening public order. This effective endorsement of coercive censorship by suggesting compromise with perpetrators makes the High Court pathway currently ineffective for securing justice, compelling this urgent appeal in the Supreme Court as the ultimate guardian of the Constitution,' the petition had submitted. The petition has questioned the Karnataka government's 'flagrant failure' to maintain law and order in the State and protect constitutional freedoms. It said the 'unconstitutional extra-judicial ban' in Karnataka stems not from any lawful process but from a deliberate campaign of terror and a chilling call for a repeat of past anti-Tamil riots. 'This serious situation occurs within a disturbing societal context where chauvinistic elements have targeted linguistic minorities such as Hindi speakers in Bengaluru with impunity, fostering a climate of fear that now directly threatens constitutional order over this film…,' the petition has highlighted.
The Sun
08-06-2025
- General
- The Sun
Modern challenges of adult bonds
PETALING JAYA: While the phrase 'best friends forever' (BFF) is as commonly used by adults as teenagers, its meaning becomes more nuanced and sometimes bittersweet with age. What once symbolised endless laughter, shared secrets and unwavering loyalty gradually transforms into fleeting messages, occasional catch-ups and friendships shaped more by convenience than connection. As people move into their 30s and 40s, life becomes increasingly occupied with careers, marriage, children and caring for aging parents, leaving little space for the deep, spontaneous bonds of youth. For many, the once-cherished ideal of a lifelong BFF evolves into something more practical and at times, more distant. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia senior lecturer in anthropology and sociology Dr Velan Kunjuraman said the nature of friendship has shifted in the fast-paced, globalised society of today. Speaking in conjunction with World Best Friends Day today, Velan said adult relationships in Malaysia have become increasingly situational and why the longing for meaningful connection still runs deep. 'While Malaysian adults in their 30s or 40s may refer to someone as a 'best friend,' in reality, many of these relationships have become more superficial,' he said, adding that adult friendships are no longer defined by constant interaction or physical presence, as they were in youth. 'The concept of a BFF evolves with age. It depends greatly on the personality, lifestyle and values of a person.' Velan said a major factor behind this change is the growing weight of adult responsibilities. 'Friendships in adulthood are influenced by multiple factors – career demands, business networks, entertainment preferences and emotional support needs.' While personal values play a role in shaping friendships, responsibilities such as marriage and parenthood often reduce the time and emotional capacity available for maintaining close social ties. 'Sometimes, these obligations create barriers to sustaining long-term friendships.' Social connections are increasingly built around proximity and convenience, such as relationships with co-workers, neighbours or members of local communities. Velan also highlighted the influence of collectivist culture in Malaysia, especially on women, adding that historically, cultural expectations place a heavy domestic burden on women, limiting their social interactions beyond the household. On the impact of migration for work, study or marriage, Velan acknowledged that such transitions could disrupt longstanding friendships. 'When women move into the household of their husband, cultural expectations may make it hard to maintain connections.' Velan said while some manage to stay in touch, many friendships fade as new routines and responsibilities take precedence. 'Technology, while beneficial, could also be a double-edged sword. Social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Instagram and TikTok help adults stay connected. 'However, the nature of these interactions can sometimes feel performative or superficial, depending on how individuals engage with them,' he said, adding that forming new friendships in adulthood is also a growing challenge. 'Once people enter the workforce or take on family responsibilities, their social circles often shrink.' Adults may also become more selective in choosing friends, seeking those who share similar values or lifestyles. 'The absence of meaningful friendships in adulthood could negatively affect mental health, increasing the risk of loneliness, stress and depression. Friendship offers emotional support and a sense of belonging, both of which are essential for psychological resilience.'
The Sun
08-06-2025
- General
- The Sun
Why Adult Friendships Change: BFFs and Life's Realities
PETALING JAYA: While the phrase 'best friends forever' (BFF) is as commonly used by adults as teenagers, its meaning becomes more nuanced and sometimes bittersweet with age. What once symbolised endless laughter, shared secrets and unwavering loyalty gradually transforms into fleeting messages, occasional catch-ups and friendships shaped more by convenience than connection. As people move into their 30s and 40s, life becomes increasingly occupied with careers, marriage, children and caring for aging parents, leaving little space for the deep, spontaneous bonds of youth. For many, the once-cherished ideal of a lifelong BFF evolves into something more practical and at times, more distant. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia senior lecturer in anthropology and sociology Dr Velan Kunjuraman said the nature of friendship has shifted in the fast-paced, globalised society of today. Speaking in conjunction with World Best Friends Day today, Velan said adult relationships in Malaysia have become increasingly situational and why the longing for meaningful connection still runs deep. 'While Malaysian adults in their 30s or 40s may refer to someone as a 'best friend,' in reality, many of these relationships have become more superficial,' he said, adding that adult friendships are no longer defined by constant interaction or physical presence, as they were in youth. 'The concept of a BFF evolves with age. It depends greatly on the personality, lifestyle and values of a person.' Velan said a major factor behind this change is the growing weight of adult responsibilities. 'Friendships in adulthood are influenced by multiple factors – career demands, business networks, entertainment preferences and emotional support needs.' While personal values play a role in shaping friendships, responsibilities such as marriage and parenthood often reduce the time and emotional capacity available for maintaining close social ties. 'Sometimes, these obligations create barriers to sustaining long-term friendships.' Social connections are increasingly built around proximity and convenience, such as relationships with co-workers, neighbours or members of local communities. Velan also highlighted the influence of collectivist culture in Malaysia, especially on women, adding that historically, cultural expectations place a heavy domestic burden on women, limiting their social interactions beyond the household. On the impact of migration for work, study or marriage, Velan acknowledged that such transitions could disrupt longstanding friendships. 'When women move into the household of their husband, cultural expectations may make it hard to maintain connections.' Velan said while some manage to stay in touch, many friendships fade as new routines and responsibilities take precedence. 'Technology, while beneficial, could also be a double-edged sword. Social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Instagram and TikTok help adults stay connected. 'However, the nature of these interactions can sometimes feel performative or superficial, depending on how individuals engage with them,' he said, adding that forming new friendships in adulthood is also a growing challenge. 'Once people enter the workforce or take on family responsibilities, their social circles often shrink.' Adults may also become more selective in choosing friends, seeking those who share similar values or lifestyles. 'The absence of meaningful friendships in adulthood could negatively affect mental health, increasing the risk of loneliness, stress and depression. Friendship offers emotional support and a sense of belonging, both of which are essential for psychological resilience.' Cutline: With advancing age, youthful interactions may fade into occasional meet-ups and brief phone conversations. – theSunpix
