Groups: PKR should probe Kesavan for sexual harassment
PUCHONG: Women’s groups today urged PKR to investigate the party’s Sungai Siput MP S Kesavan for allegedly sexually harassing his former aide.
Joint Action Group for Gender Equality (JAG) said PKR should take the allegations seriously and form an investigation panel made up of both men and women.
“Political parties must not tolerate sexual harassment. We all deserve an elected representative who respects women,” said JAG, in a statement.
Last week, a woman lodged a police report claiming she had been sexually harassed by Kesavan while working for the latter.
Kesavan, in turn, lodged a separate police report against the unnamed woman, claiming the latter was attempting to take advantage of him and wrecking his marriage.
Selangor police said they were investigating the allegations. The woman is also mulling filing a defamation suit against Kesavan for calling her a ‘homewrecker.’
JAG, however, poured cold water on the police investigation, saying that the existing laws are not sufficient to deal with sexual harassment cases.
“Police investigation may not resolve the case. This is why we need for the Sexual Harassment Bill to be enacted.
“Nevertheless, PKR need not wait for a new law to take action. The party must hold itself to the highest internal standards,” said JAG.
Among the movements that signed the statement include All Women’s Action Society and Women’s Aid Organisation.
By G Vinod
