Thailand says Vishnu statue was removed for security reasons amid border dispute with Cambodia

The controversy erupted after videos showing a backhoe loader damaging the idol, allegedly by the Thai army, went viral on social media, triggering criticism from religious groups and political leaders, including in India.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Thai-Cambodian border press centre said the action was not intended to target religious beliefs or offend religious sentiments.

“The actions were not intended to involve religion, beliefs, or disrespect any sacred entities, but were solely for the purpose of area management and security, following the Thai side’s regaining control of areas under Thailand’s sovereignty,” the statement said.

Thailand also claimed that the statue had been erected illegally by Cambodian forces in the Chong An Ma area along the disputed border.

According to Bangkok, the structure was built to assert Cambodian sovereignty over territory claimed by Thailand, prompting its removal during security operations.

Cambodia has strongly rejected Thailand’s version of events. According to a report by news agency AFP, Preah Vihear province spokesperson Lim Chanpanha said the statue was located inside Cambodian territory in the An Ses area, around 100 metres from the Thai border.

He added that the Vishnu statue, built in 2014, was demolished on Monday.

Cambodian authorities alleged that the statue was a religious site worshipped by both Hindu and Buddhist followers and accused Thailand of destroying a place of worship.

The demolition has added to tensions between the two Southeast Asian neighbours, who have been engaged in intermittent military clashes over their long-standing border dispute.

In its statement, Thailand said it respects all religions and beliefs and expressed “sincere regret for any discomfort that may have arisen from misunderstandings” following the circulation of the images.

India on Wednesday condemned the demolition of the Hindu deity’s statue, calling the act “disrespectful” and harmful to religious sentiments worldwide.

External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said New Delhi had taken note of reports regarding the destruction of the statue in an area affected by the ongoing Thai-Cambodia border dispute.

“Such acts hurt the sentiments of followers around the world and should not take place,” Jaiswal said, urging both Thailand and Cambodia to exercise restraint and resolve their differences through dialogue and diplomacy.

India also called on both countries to prevent further loss of life and damage to property as tensions continue along the border.

The latest clashes began in July, and despite a ceasefire brokered by US President Donald Trump, hostilities resumed earlier this month.

The destruction of the Vishnu statue has now emerged as a flashpoint in the conflict, highlighting how territorial disputes in the region are increasingly intersecting with religious sensitivities and drawing international concern.