Demolition Of Hindu Deity Statue Linked To Security, Not Religion: Thailand On Damage To Lord Vishnu Idol In Cambodia | World News

A day after India expressed concern over the demolition of a recently built statue of a Hindu god in the disputed Thailand-Cambodia border area, Thailand issued a statement saying the action was related to security considerations and administration of the region and was not intended to disrespect any religion or belief.

The Thailand-Cambodia border press center said the damage to the idol was “not intended to involve religion or belief” and occurred during area management and security operations after Thai forces regained control of the area, The Week reported.

Thai officials said the structure in question was not established as a registered or officially recognized religious site. They added that the removal was carried out to ensure effective control of the area, reduce the risk of misunderstanding and prevent the use of structures and symbols that would cause further tension.

According to the Thai side, the idol stood in the Chong An Ma area and was viewed by Thailand as a sign erected by Cambodian soldiers to assert sovereignty over territory claimed by Thailand, raising security concerns in the disputed region.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Wednesday expressed deep concern over the demolition of a recently constructed statue of a Hindu god in the disputed Thailand-Cambodia border area. Videos circulating online show an idol of Lord Vishnu being damaged during a bulldozing operation by Thai military personnel in a disputed border area.

The statue was built in 2014 and was located in the An Ses area. The incident occurred amid rising tensions between Cambodia and Thailand.

Outrage: India’s MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal Condemns Demolition of Lord Vishnu Statue! • Thai army bulldozes statue of Hindu god in disputed Cambodian border area • Jaiswal: Disrespectful actions hurt global sentiments, protect common heritage • Statue from 2014 demolished… pic.twitter.com/TBaHx7nTln — Voice of Bharat (@Kunal_Mechrules) December 24, 2025

In an official statement, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal urged Thailand and Cambodia to resolve differences through dialogue and diplomacy to prevent further damage to lives, property and heritage.

Cambodia also strongly criticized Thailand for destroying a Hindu statue in the disputed border area.

Clashes between the two neighboring countries began in July this year. A ceasefire was reached with the help of US President Donald Trump in July, but fighting resumed this month.

According to official figures cited in reports, the renewed fighting has killed more than 40 people and displaced nearly a million people.

Both sides accused each other of inciting violence and targeting civilians. Cambodia has repeatedly claimed that Thailand damaged temples along the disputed border, while Thailand claimed that Cambodian forces deployed troops near the centuries-old stone structures.