India on Wednesday strongly condemned the demolition of a statue of a Hindu deity at a temple complex in Cambodia amid ongoing border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia, calling the act deeply disrespectful and hurtful to religious sentiments worldwide.
Reacting to reports that the statue was demolished by the Thai military in a disputed border area, the Ministry of External Affairs said such actions were unacceptable, stressing that Hindu and Buddhist deities are revered across the region and represent a shared civilisational heritage that must be respected regardless of territorial disputes.
“Notwithstanding territorial claims, such disrespectful acts hurt the sentiments of followers around the world, and should not take place. We once again urge the two sides to return to dialogue and diplomacy, to resume peace and avoid any further loss of lives, and damage to property and heritage,” the MEA statement said.
Details Of The Demolition
The Vishnu statue, built in 2014, was reportedly toppled by Thai military engineers using a bulldozer. Videos of the demolition circulated widely on social media, sparking outrage. AFP confirmed the authenticity of the footage using AI-detection tools, showing heavy machinery knocking down the statue. Thai authorities have not yet issued an official response.
Cambodia Confirms Statue Was On Its Territory
Cambodia condemned the demolition, asserting that the statue was located inside its territory in the An Ses area of Preah Vihear province. Cambodian government spokesman Kim Chanpanha said, “We condemn the destruction of ancient temples and statues that are worshipped by Buddhist and Hindu followers.” While initial reports suggested the statue stood about 100 metres from the Thai border, Google Maps indicates it is approximately 400 metres away, highlighting differing claims over the exact boundary.
Border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia erupted in July this year, with a ceasefire brokered by US President Donald Trump later that month. Fighting resumed this month, and the demolition of the Vishnu statue has further escalated tensions.