India and Malaysia on Monday discussed the plight of ethnic Indians, who had been protesting against the government alleging their marginalisation in Malaysia.

The issue came up during talks defence minister A K Antony had with his counterpart Najib Razak in Kuala Lumpur. However, the two leaders did not reveal details of their discussions on the issue.

"He is aware of the political situation. Let's leave it at that," Najib said at a joint press conference after the meeting. When Indian journalists sought his remarks, Antony declined to comment.

The Hindu Rights Action Front (Hindraf), a non-governmental group, had organised a massive rally attended by over 20,000 ethnic Indians here on November 25 to protest their alleged marginalisation in this country. The allegation has been denied by the government.

Authorities took into custody scores of people following the assembly, declared 'illegal' by the government. Five leaders of Hindraf are still in detention under the controversial Internal Security Act, which allows holding people without trial for a long period of time.