I am appalled and surprised after reading the letter by Eric Paulsen entitled ISA debate: Why ask for police permit in which he blamed the DAP for taking the trouble to apply for a police permit for their ISA debate.

His understanding of the Police Act is very shallow. Section 27(5)(b) of the Police Act defines that three or more persons taking part in a public congregation commit an offence. The law only makes an exemption if the meeting or gathering takes place in a building within closed doors and is confined to members of associations or political parties.

As the ISA debate will be open to the public, the police still have the power to take action against the event under Section 27(2) of the Police Act if it is held without a police permit. As such, it is right and proper of the DAP, as the organisers, to make an application for a police permit.

Do not blame the DAP for being law-abiding. I am sure the DAP is sincere in holding the public debate because the subject is pertinent to the future of all Malaysians - irrespective of our backgrounds.