BANGKOK – Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated that the dismantling of a statue resembling a Hindu deity near the Thai-Cambodian border cannot be equated with the sacrifices of Thai soldiers injured in the ongoing conflict. His remarks came in response to concerns raised by India over the statue’s removal, which Indian officials described as disrespectful to religious sentiments globally.

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“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,” the Prime Minister said.

The Thai-Cambodian Border Situation Centre also addressed India’s complaint, clarifying that there was no intention to disrespect any religion. The removal was carried out as part of security and area management measures after Thai forces regained control of a disputed area in the Chong Anh Ma region of Ubon Ratchathani province.

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The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Joint Press Center on the Thailand-Cambodia Border Situation have issued an urgent clarification to the Indian government following the removal of… pic.twitter.com/YjpzDjxYNV

— Khaosod English (@KhaosodEnglish) December 25, 2025

India’s External Affairs Ministry spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, had earlier expressed concern after videos and photos of the demolition circulated online. “Hindu and Buddhist deities are deeply revered and worshipped by people across the region as part of our shared civilizational heritage,” Jaiswal said. “Notwithstanding territorial claims, such disrespectful acts hurt the sentiments of followers around the world and should not take place.”

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In its response, Thai authorities emphasized that the structure was a later-installed construction and not a formally registered religious site. The removal was intended to reaffirm territorial control, reduce the risk of misunderstandings, and prevent the use of symbols that could escalate tensions. The statement reiterated Thailand’s respect for all religions, including Hinduism, and expressed regret if the incident caused any discomfort or misunderstanding.

-Thailand News (TN)