Speaking to reporters later, Jayathas said holding the prayers at the Batu Caves temple was significant because it was the site which witnessed the first crackdown by the authorities on Hindraf supporters.

During the Nov 25 rally last year, police fired tear gas and water cannons at Hindraf supporters trapped inside the temple compound during the wee hours of the morning.

"A temple is a place where Hindus seek protection. But (during the rally last year), Indians in this temple were shot with tear gas, water cannons and some of them were charged with attempted murder (of a policeman)," said Jayathas.