KUALA LUMPUR, Sunday 11 July 2010 (Bernama) -- A MIC delegate today urged the government to consider declaring two days public holiday for Deepavali.

N.Thevar, from Teluk Intan MIC, said this was to allow the Indian community to have more time to celebrate the occasion with their family members.

"Deepavali normally falls just before the school final term examination, so students cannot focus on their studies and to celebrate Deepavali," he said at the MIC general assembly at the Putra World Trade Centre here today.

MIC vice-president Datuk S.K.Devamany, who seconded the proposal, said Deepavali should be allotted two days public holiday as that of Aidil Fitri and Chinese New Year.

"We need more time... in the morning, to go to the temple to pray, then entertain guests, and to be with family members. One day is not enough," he added.