India is concerned over dismantling of Hindu deity statue on Thai-Cambodia border
The Indian Foreign Ministry voiced concern over the reported removal of a Hindu deity statue and urged Bangkok and Phnom Penh to restore calm through diplomacy.
Indian media outlets quoted on Wednesday (December 24) an Indian Foreign Ministry spokesperson as saying the incident was “disrespectful” and had hurt the sentiments of worshippers worldwide, while urging Thailand and Cambodia to resolve their border dispute through dialogue and diplomacy.
Randhir Jaiswal, spokesman for India’s Ministry of External Affairs, said, “We have received reports about the dismantling of a Hindu deity statue that was erected recently and is located in an area affected by the ongoing Thailand–Cambodia border dispute.”
“We once again urge both sides to return to talks and diplomatic channels to restore peace and avoid further loss of life, property damage, and harm to cultural heritage.”
Thai Army engineers under the Second Army Area removed a newly built Hindu-style (Vishnu) statue at Chong An Ma, Ubon Ratchathani, after finding it had been erected on Thai soil.
A video posted on December 25, 2025, said the statue was allegedly built by Cambodian soldiers as a “landmark” to support an unlawful claim. Thai forces say they now control the area.
The army later said the removal was routine area management, not intended to offend any religion, and stressed Thailand respects all beliefs.
