Arun, whose real name is D Arumugam, was charged with committing the offence under Section 233(1)(a) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 at the Selayang Sessions court here today.

The 51-year old was accused of making the claim in a Facebook post last year.

Also charged with the same offence was R Thanaletchimy, 63.

Thanaletchimy was alleged to have made similar claims in a WhatsApp group.

The duo were represented by lawyer Rajesh Nagarajan.

Judge Nur Rajiah Mat Zin set bail at RM6,000 with one surety for both.

The court also fixed July 1 for mention.

When contacted, Rajesh Nagarajan said his clients denied all allegations against them and will vigorously defend this charge.

“Further, our clients are looking forward to defending themselves and proving their innocence in open court.”