India condemns demolition of deity’s statue

NEW DELHI: India responded Wednesday to the demolition of a statue of an ancient Hindu deity, built in an area affected by the ongoing Thailand-Cambodia border dispute, saying that notwithstanding territorial claims, such disrespectful acts hurt the sentiments of followers around the world and should not take place.“Hindu and Buddhist deities are deeply revered and worshipped by people across the region, as part of our shared civilisational heritage,” MEA said in a statement. “We once again urge the two sides to return to dialogue and diplomacy, to restore peace and avoid any further loss of lives, and damage to property and heritage,” it added.