Fury in Cambodia: Thai Army Demolishes Lord Vishnu Statue, Claiming ‘It Was Inside Our Territory’
Cambodia has vehemently condemned Thailand for the destruction of a Hindu statue located in a contentious border area amidst escalating military tensions between the two countries. The statue of Lord Vishnu, erected in 2014, was reportedly demolished by Thai military engineers using a bulldozer. The incident occurred on Monday, following more than two weeks of military clashes that have resulted in significant casualties and displacement.
According to Kim Chanpanha, a spokesman for the Cambodian government in the border province of Preah Vihear, the statue was situated within Cambodian territory in the An Ses region, approximately 100 meters from the Thai border. However, mapping data from Google indicates that the statue was actually about 400 meters from the delineated border line, raising questions about territorial claims.
Chanpanha expressed outrage over the incident, stating, “We condemn the destruction of ancient temples and statues that are worshipped by both Buddhist and Hindu followers.” A video depicting the statue’s demolition has circulated on social media, prompting widespread anger among Cambodians. The Thai authorities have yet to issue an official statement in response to the incident.
This latest flare-up in the long-standing border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has already claimed the lives of over 40 individuals and displaced approximately one million people, as reported by AFP. Both governments have accused each other of instigating the violence. Cambodian representatives claim that Thai forces have caused damage to temple ruins along the border, while Thailand contends that Cambodia has been positioning troops near centuries-old stone structures.
Earlier this month, concerns were raised by India regarding damage to conservation facilities at the Preah Vihear Temple, a 12th-century Hindu site dedicated to Shiva, located close to the Thai-Cambodian border. Randhir Jaiswal, a spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs, emphasized that India is closely monitoring the situation and stressed the importance of safeguarding the UNESCO World Heritage Site, which symbolizes shared human heritage.
The conflict traces its roots to a territorial dispute over the colonial-era demarcation of an 800-kilometer-long border, which includes several ancient temple ruins situated along the frontier. As the military clashes continue, the situation remains tense, compelling international observers to call for immediate resolutions and adherence to peace talks.
With the ongoing disputes and military actions escalating, both nations are under pressure to find a diplomatic solution to restore peace and protect their shared historical and cultural sites. The destruction of the Vishnu statue is a stark reminder of the sensitive nature of borders and cultural heritage, underscoring the dire need for dialogue in the region.
As Cambodia and Thailand grapple with these challenges, the preservation of cultural artifacts and the resolution of border disputes will be crucial in fostering lasting peace and mutual respect.
Original Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/cambodia-slams-demolition-of-lord-vishnu-statue-by-thai-army-was-inside-our-territory-101766578531234.html
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Publish Date: 2025-12-24 18:24:00
