India has strongly condemned the demolition of Hindu deity statues near the Thailand–Cambodia border, describing the act as disrespectful and deeply hurtful to the sentiments of devotees worldwide. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a statement urging both nations to resolve disputes through dialogue and diplomacy.
The incident involved the destruction of a statue of Lord Vishnu, reportedly carried out by the Thai military amid ongoing territorial clashes. The act has drawn sharp criticism from Cambodia, which claimed the statue was within its territory and denounced the demolition as an attack on cultural heritage and faith.
India emphasized that Hindu and Buddhist deities represent a shared civilisational heritage across Asia. The MEA highlighted that such actions undermine centuries-old traditions and risk escalating tensions between neighboring countries.
Calling for restraint, India appealed to Thailand and Cambodia to protect cultural symbols and avoid further escalation. The statement underscored India’s commitment to safeguarding heritage and promoting peace through cultural diplomacy.
The demolition has triggered outrage among communities across Asia, reinforcing the sensitivity of religious and cultural symbols in disputed regions. India’s condemnation reflects its role as a defender of cultural values and its emphasis on dialogue as the path to resolution.
