GOMBAK, SELANGOR, MALAYSIA January 10, 2026 – Selangor State Executive Councillor Tuan Papparaidu Veraman today released an official statement addressing the ongoing controversy surrounding the proposed escalator construction at Batu Caves, which was triggered by remarks from the Chairman of the Batu Caves Temple Management, Tan Sri Nadaraja.
The issue gained public attention following a media statement by Tan Sri Nadaraja on December 30, 2025, in which he claimed that endorsements from the Prime Minister, the Selangor Menteri Besar, and the Selangor State Government had not facilitated the approval process for the escalator project and other developments, such as a multipurpose hall. He further alleged that the Menteri Besar was not serious about resolving issues affecting the Indian settlement community in Batu Caves, particularly ahead of the Thaipusam festival, and urged journalists to directly question both leaders on the delay in approving the escalator application.
In his statement today, Papparaidu Veraman firmly stated that these claims were inaccurate, misleading, and do not reflect the actual situation. He emphasised that both the Selangor State Government and the Federal Government remain fully committed to safeguarding the interests of all citizens regardless of background.
Papparaidu, who also serves as Exco for Human Resources and Poverty Eradication as well as the State Assemblyman for Banting, said he had received numerous calls from media and members of the public seeking clarification, as the allegations risked damaging the government’s reputation and confusing the public.
He stressed that any development project in a sensitive area like Batu Caves is subject to legal procedures, technical planning, and evaluation by relevant authorities, including considerations of public safety, heritage status, environmental impact, and land-use compatibility. All developments, including commercial buildings and shops, must obtain valid planning permission and building plans from the local authority.
Papparaidu also clarified that the existence of an old court order from 1930 cannot be used as a blanket justification to bypass current approval processes without proper legal scrutiny.
He proposed that the Batu Caves Temple Management be formally registered with the Registrar of Societies (ROS) to enable the state government and technical authorities to provide assistance and streamline all technical aspects, allowing the escalator proposal to proceed in an orderly and lawful manner. This aligns with the in-principle agreement reached between the Selangor Menteri Besar and the temple management on February 4, 2025.
During a recent media session at the Selayang Municipal Council with its President, Papparaidu explained the rejection of a Temporary Occupation Licence (TOL) land application because it was submitted in an individual’s name and did not meet the required criteria. He added that he would obtain and present further documents and evidence with the Menteri Besar’s approval if necessary.
However, on January 7, 2026, he received a Letter of Demand from Messrs ADR & Co, representing Tan Sri Nadaraja, claiming RM1 million in damages for alleged defamation.
Papparaidu maintained that all his statements were made in his official capacity, based on facts, in the public interest, and solely to provide accurate clarification to the public, with no intention to defame any party.
The escalator proposal has long been advocated to assist elderly devotees and persons with disabilities in climbing the temple’s 272 steps, especially during Thaipusam, which attracts millions of visitors annually. The state government reiterated its commitment to processing the proposal in a systematic and lawful manner.
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