THE Thai army clarified this afternoon (Dec. 25) that the demolition of a statue of Hindu god Vishnu at Chong An Ma border crossing in Ubon Ratchathani province upon reclaiming the area from Khmer troops is not related to religion or beliefs with the statue not having been registered as a religious monument, TV Channel 7 said.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs yesterday (Dec. 24) reacted to the demolition of the statue of Lord Vishnu by saying “such disrespectful acts hurt the sentiments of followers around the world”.
However the Thai army said at a press briefing the destruction of the statue did not involve religion, beliefs, or disrespect to any sacred objects. It was a matter of managing the area and security after Thailand regained control of the zone.
The intention was to reaffirm control of the area and mitigate risk of misunderstanding as well as prevent use of symbols to stir further tensions.
Thailand respects all religions and beliefs equally, including Hinduism, which has long historical and cultural ties with countries in the region. The country is also mindful of the feelings of people and religious followers worldwide and regrets if this incident caused any discomfort due to misunderstanding.
Thailand is committed to resolving issues peacefully, through diplomacy and constructive communication, to promote mutual understanding, reduce conflict, and maintain an atmosphere of friendship between the two countries and their peoples.
“This was an action related to area management and was not intended to involve any religion or beliefs,” the army spokesperson said.
Meanwhile the Second Army Region said in a Facebook message that two soldiers got injured at 2.25 p.m. this afternoon while clearing landmines around Prasat Ta Kwai ancient temple that was retaken on Dec. 16 with one of them having lost a leg and becoming the ninth soldier to do so.
The two injured soldiers are part of a team of engineers from Battalion 5.22 with Sgt. Maj.Nititham Srikamsang sustaining serious injuries to his left leg while Staff Sgt. Amnat Thassombat experienced chest tightness and tinnitus from the blast.
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The statue of Hindu god Vishnu being destroyed at Chong An Ma border crossing. Photos – Amarin TV
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