The Indian government issued a firm response on Wednesday to reports of the demolition of a statue depicting an ancient Hindu deity. The incident occurred in a region affected by the ongoing border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia.
India's Official Stance on the Incident
In a formal statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed deep concern over the act. The government emphasized that regardless of the territorial claims in the area, such disrespectful acts hurt the sentiments of followers around the world and should not be allowed to take place.
The MEA highlighted the deep cultural and religious significance of such icons, stating that Hindu and Buddhist deities are deeply revered and worshipped by people across the region. It framed them as an integral part of the shared civilisational heritage of the area, transcending modern political boundaries.
Call for Peace and Diplomacy
Going beyond the immediate incident, India reiterated its call for a peaceful resolution to the underlying conflict. The statement urged both sides to return to dialogue and diplomacy as the only sustainable path forward.
The appeal had three clear objectives:
- To restore peace in the troubled region.
- To avoid any further loss of human lives.
- To prevent additional damage to property and cultural heritage sites.
This position underscores India's consistent diplomatic approach of advocating for peaceful negotiations in international disputes, especially when they involve damage to cultural and religious symbols revered by millions.
Broader Implications and Regional Sentiment
The demolition of religious statues in conflict zones is a sensitive issue with ramifications beyond immediate politics. For India, a nation with deep historical and cultural links to Southeast Asia, such acts are seen as an attack on a common spiritual legacy.
The statement from New Delhi serves as a reminder to the international community about the importance of protecting cultural heritage during conflicts. It also reflects the emotional and religious connect that the Indian diaspora and citizens feel towards ancient deities, irrespective of their geographical location.
By calling for restraint and dialogue, India aims to contribute to stability in the region while standing up for the preservation of a heritage that it views as collectively owned by humanity.
