India Strongly Condemns Demolition Of Lord Vishnu Statue Amid Thailand Cambodia Border Conflict

India has strongly condemned the demolition of a Hindu deity’s statue during the ongoing conflict between Thailand and Cambodia. A video showing a bulldozer tearing down a statue of Lord Vishnu went viral on social media. The incident occurred in a disputed border area affected by weeks of fighting. India said such acts deeply hurt the sentiments of millions of devotees worldwide. The protest comes as violence between the two Southeast Asian nations continues to escalate. New Delhi called the act unacceptable under any circumstances. The issue has now taken a diplomatic turn.

Where And When Was The Statue Destroyed?

According to reports, the Lord Vishnu statue was built in 2014 and stood in a sensitive border zone. Cambodian officials allege that Thai military engineers used bulldozers to demolish it. The statue was reportedly located about 100 meters inside Cambodian territory. The incident took place amid intense clashes that began on December 8. Since then, nearly 40 people have been killed. More than 800,000 civilians have been displaced. The demolition has further inflamed tensions.

A Hindu deity’s statue was destroyed by Thailand’s army, placed by Cambodia. Both are Buddhist nations with a history of Hindu ancestors are now converting ancient Hindu temples into Buddha viharas. Shameful, Hindus even revere Buddha as an avatar of Vishnu and pay God Buddha too pic.twitter.com/yDPIcoaeUl

— Baba Banaras™ (@RealBababanaras) December 23, 2025

What Did India’s Foreign Ministry Say?

India’s reaction was conveyed by Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs. He said the destruction of a Hindu religious statue is deeply disrespectful. Such actions, he said, hurt the sentiments of Hindus across the world. He stressed that Hindu and Buddhist deities are part of a shared civilizational heritage in the region. Territorial disputes should never lead to damage of cultural or religious symbols. India urged restraint and responsibility. The statement reflected strong diplomatic concern.

What Appeal Did India Make To Both Sides?

India appealed to both Thailand and Cambodia to avoid further damage to life, property, and heritage. The foreign ministry urged both sides to return to dialogue and diplomacy. India emphasized peaceful resolution of disputes. It also called for immediate steps to protect cultural and religious sites. According to New Delhi, heritage must remain untouched even during conflict. India reiterated that violence only deepens wounds. Diplomatic engagement was described as the only viable solution.

What Does Cambodia Claim About The Incident?

Cambodia has accused the Thai army of crossing into its territory and destroying the statue. Government spokesperson Kim Chanpanha told AFP that the statue stood in the An Ses area within Cambodian borders. He said the demolition happened well inside Cambodian land. Cambodia has condemned the destruction of ancient temples and statues. Officials argue that cultural heritage is being deliberately targeted. The allegation has intensified diplomatic friction. Cambodia has demanded accountability.

Why Has Violence Erupted Between The Two Nations?

Thailand and Cambodia are blaming each other for triggering the latest clashes. Cambodia claims Thai forces damaged temple ruins during military operations. Thailand counters that Cambodian troops were stationed near ancient stone temples. The dispute revolves around an 800-kilometre border drawn during the colonial era. Several ancient temple ruins lie along this contested boundary. These sites often become flashpoints during tensions. The conflict mixes history, territory, and heritage.

Why Is Preah Vihear Temple Central To Concerns?

Earlier this month, India raised concerns about damage near the 12th-century Preah Vihear Temple. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site of immense historical value. India said it was closely monitoring developments in the region. New Delhi stressed that safeguarding such heritage is essential. Any damage to these sites raises global concern. The Vishnu statue incident has reinforced fears. Cultural preservation has now become a key international issue.