KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak brushed off allegations that the release of three Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf) leaders was to counter negative perceptions over the Perak state assembly fracas.

He said the release proved that opposition's allegations that the government was cruel and repressive as well as suppressing individual freedom were baseless.

"If they do not bring any threat to national security, we don't even want to detain them a day longer than necessary. If they deserve to be released, they will be released," Najib said after launching the "A Decade of Dedication" exhibition at the Islamic Arts Museum yesterday.

Najib said the police felt it was time for the trio to be released, adding that he was informed of the news by Home Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein.

On a statement by Hindraf chairman P. Waythamoorthy that the release was to divert the people's attention from the Perak commotion, Najib said: "People say all kinds of things. If we release them, they say this. If we detain them, they said we are being repressive. So, please, decide what you want."

Najib also pointed out that when he took over as prime minister, he announced the release of 13 Internal Security Act detainees.

"I want to show that the government is proactive, one that acts based on fair principles and respects civil law and liberties."