By Nityaasini Sivagami
SELANGOR, 8 July 2025: A disturbing incident of alleged sexual violation by a priest at the Mariamman Temple in Salak Tinggi, Selangor, has prompted widespread outrage and calls for accountability. Public figure Lishalliny Kanaran bravely disclosed the alleged assault in a viral social media post this week, detailing an incident that has raised serious concerns about safety within places of worship and the response of religious institutions.
According to Kanaran’s statement, the alleged assault occurred on June 21, when she was alone at the temple seeking spiritual guidance. She claims the accused priest, who had previously assisted her with prayers, lured her to a private area under the guise of performing a personal blessing with holy water. Once isolated, he allegedly proceeded to molest her, violating a sacred trust.
“The one place I thought I’d find peace—that was where it happened. At a temple. That betrayal is what cuts the deepest,” Kanaran wrote in her powerful account.
After weeks of silence and dealing with personal trauma, Lishalliny finally informed her family on July 4, who then lodged a police report the same day. Shockingly, it has since been revealed that this is reportedly not the first complaint against the same priest, leading to serious questions regarding potential negligence and inaction by the temple committee.
Kanaran further alleged that instead of offering support, the temple authorities attempted to suppress the issue, reportedly prioritizing the temple’s reputation over the survivor’s well-being. “They tried to talk me out of it, talk me into silence,” she stated, adding that an officer even warned her against posting anything online, suggesting she would be blamed for speaking out.
This reported response from the temple has ignited significant public anger and demands for accountability, not only against the alleged perpetrator but also against those who may have enabled or protected him. Selangor police have confirmed that an investigation into the matter is underway.
The incident serves as a stark reminder that places of worship, often seen as sanctuaries, are not immune to abuse. Advocates emphasize that harassment is a serious crime, never a mistake or misunderstanding, and is unequivocally unacceptable in any setting, including sacred spaces. The case underscores a growing public demand for transparency and justice, affirming that abusers, regardless of their position or perceived authority, must be held accountable.
