SINGAPORE — A disturbing incident stemming from a noise complaint has resulted in a 14-week jail sentence for 36-year-old Vikneswaran V. Moganaval. This case highlights the delicate balance of communal living in Singapore.
Incident Overview
Vikneswaran was living in a Housing and Development Board flat in Woodlands when he expressed his frustration over his neighbour’s children, aged four and seven, playing along the common corridor.
His grievances peaked on Deepavali, 20 October 2025. Feeling that the noise disrupted his celebrations—he even claimed to have cancelled a gathering at his home—he decided to take matters into his own hands.
Disturbing Actions
- Vikneswaran smeared pork luncheon meat across the common corridor, aware of his neighbours’ Malay-Muslim identity and the associated religious taboos.
- His intention was to create an obstacle for the children, hoping they would step on the meat and bear “bad karma”.
- Despite being warned by police not to engage in such behaviour, he refused to remove the meat and maintained his intent.
Legal Consequences
He faced charges under the Maintenance of Religious Harmony Act for wounding the religious feelings of his neighbour. Upon pleading guilty, Vikneswaran was sentenced to 14 weeks of imprisonment, marking a noteworthy case that underscores the need for tolerance and respect among Singapore’s diverse population.
Context and Reactions
Deputy Public Prosecutor Chong Kee En emphasised the importance of sensitivity in a multicultural society, indicating that such actions cannot be tolerated. This case is not isolated; it reflects broader concerns regarding neighbour disputes in Singapore.
In recent years, the Community Disputes Resolution Tribunals (CDRT) have dealt with numerous noise complaints, with over 1,000 claims filed between 2020 and 2024. The Ministry of Law has stipulated ongoing efforts to manage such disputes effectively.
Previous Offences
This is not Vikneswaran’s first brush with the law. He has a record of making nuisance calls to emergency services and has previously berated police officers, suggesting a pattern of disruptive behaviour.
As Singapore continues to navigate the complexities of living peacefully amidst cultural diversity, this incident serves as a critical reminder of the importance of community harmony and mutual respect.