Malaysia Manhunt for Priest in Actress Molestation Case

Malaysian actress and Miss Grand Malaysia 2021 winner Lishalliny Kanaran has accused a Hindu temple priest in Sepang of molesting her during a ritual at the Mariamman Temple on June 21. Kanaran alleges the Indian national priest lured her into his office under the pretense of a special blessing, splashed her with a strong-smelling liquid, and groped her, asking her to undress as part of a supposed ritual. The priest, who was temporarily covering for the resident priest, has since fled, prompting a police manhunt. Authorities are investigating the case under Section 354 of the Penal Code for outrage of modesty. Kanaran also claims a police investigator discouraged her from publicizing the assault, warning she would be blamed. The case has stirred public outrage and raised concerns about the vulnerability of women in religious settings and the handling of sexual assault allegations by police.