Saravanan pleads not guilty to graft charges – Attends public events shortly after Court appearance
KUALA LUMPUR: MIC Deputy President and Tapah Member of Parliament Datuk Seri M. Saravanan pleaded not guilty in the Sessions Court today to three charges of soliciting and receiving bribes totalling RM 1.097 million in connection with foreign worker recruitment approvals.
In contrast to typical post-arraignment routines, in which those facing such criminal charges retreat to consult legal counsel or avoid public view, Saravanan maintained an upbeat demeanour, immediately attending two pre-scheduled public functions following his court release.
Court Proceedings and Show of Support
Arriving at the Kuala Lumpur Court Complex around 8:30 AM, Saravanan was greeted by a crowd of over 1,000 supporters who had gathered outside the premises. Strict security measures were deployed throughout the court precinct.
MIC President Tan Sri S. Vigneswaran was present in the courtroom, remaining seated alongside Saravanan throughout the proceedings in a firm show of party solidarity for his trusted Deputy President until bail formalities were concluded.
During the arraignment, which commenced at around 9.00 am, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) read out three charges against Saravanan, alleging he accepted RM 1.097 million in gratification to facilitate foreign worker quotas. Saravanan denied all charges and requested a full trial.
Lead defence counsel Datuk Geethan Ram highlighted Saravanan’s full cooperation with MACC investigators throughout the inquiry, noting his responsibilities as head of several charitable organisations which necessitate international travel. Following legal arguments on bail terms, the court set bail at RM 450,000 with one surety.
The court granted the defence’s request not to impound Saravanan’s passport, permitting him to travel abroad. However, the court imposed two conditions:
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Reporting to the MACC office once every three months.
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Refraining from interfering with or contacting prosecution witnesses.
Post-Court Public Engagements
As Saravanan exited the courtroom, supporters chanted slogans of encouragement. A sizeable contingent of media personnel covered his departure.
After addressing reporters outside the courthouse, Saravanan proceeded directly to Jalan Ipoh, Kuala Lumpur, to officially launch “Sash’s Event Place,” a new event venue. Following that event, he proceeded to Brickfields to participate in the opening ceremony of the new “Maharaja Silks” showroom.
