Dismantled deity statue cannot compare to soldiers’ sacrifices - Thai PM

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said the dismantling and damage of a statue resembling a Hindu deity near a casino in the Chong Anh Ma area of Ubon Ratchathani province cannot be compared to the sacrifices of Thai soldiers who lost their limbs.

“Concerning the statue that was damaged, if you compare it to the suffering and sacrifices of our soldiers, and try to equate it with acts of disrespect, I don’t compare the two at all,” he said.

He was responding to India’s concerns over the Thai army’s action, which India said was disrespectful and could hurt religious sentiments worldwide.

Meanwhile, the Thai–Cambodian Border Situation Centre dismissed India’s complaint, saying there was no intention to disrespect any religion.

The removal was part of area management and security measures, carried out after Thai authorities regained control over an area under Thailand’s sovereignty.

The clarification came after India voiced concern when videos and photos of the demolition of a Hindu deity-like statue by the Thai army went viral. India said such “disrespectful” acts hurt the sentiments of followers around the world.

“We have seen reports on the demolition of a statue of a Hindu religious deity, built in recent times and located in an area affected by the ongoing Thai–Cambodia border dispute,” External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.

“Hindu and Buddhist deities are deeply revered and worshipped by people across the region as part of our shared civilizational heritage,” he added.

“Notwithstanding territorial claims, such disrespectful acts hurt the sentiments of followers around the world and should not take place,” Jaiswal said.

Responding to the criticism, Thai authorities said the operation was not intended to disrespect any religion, belief, or sacred object.

They noted that the structure was a later-installed construction and not an officially registered religious site.

The statement added that the removal was meant to affirm control of the area, reduce the risk of misunderstandings, and prevent the use of symbols that could potentially heighten tensions.

The center reiterated that Thailand respects all religions and beliefs equally, including Hinduism, which it said has deep historical and cultural ties across the region.

It also acknowledged the sentiments of the public and religious adherents worldwide, expressing regret if the incident caused discomfort or misunderstanding.