Ramasamy said debating Zamri would only give the preacher “undeserved legitimacy”.

In a statement today, he said Zamri should not be given the platform to spew his divisive views.

Instead, it would be better for Saravanan to push for legal action against Zamri over his “hate speech”.

“Cancel the debate. Let the law, not rhetoric, deal with those who spread hate,” he said.

Ramasamy said if a debate on Hinduism is necessary, it should be done with scholars and intellectuals, and not someone like Zamri.

He said Hinduism has withstood centuries of attacks, from the Mughal invasions to colonial-era attempts at conversion.

“A religion with such an enduring legacy does not need to be defended against the likes of Zamri.

“Let him and others say what they will – Hinduism’s strength lies in its unshakable foundation built over thousands of years,” he said.

Yesterday, Saravanan challenged Zamri to a debate after the preacher said in a Facebook post that Hindu worshippers performing the kavadi ritual said “Vel Vel” while appearing to be possessed or drunk, and he questioned why this was not considered insulting.

Zamri’s remarks followed the controversy surrounding three Era FM radio hosts, who were criticised for their mockery of the same religious practice.

Saravanan had proposed that the debate be held on March 23, with Dewan Bahasa Tamil Malaysia as the organiser. He said Zamri could select any location in Kuala Lumpur.

Earlier today, Zamri accepted the challenge.