Thailand has installed a Buddha statue at a disputed border site with Cambodia, replacing a demolished Vishnu idol. The move has reignited tensions between the two Southeast Asian nations, with Cambodia calling it provocative and India expressing concern over hurt religious sentiments. The issue follows deadly clashes last year.
Thailand’s decision to replace a demolished Vishnu statue with a newly installed Buddha idol at a contested border site has sparked fresh diplomatic tensions with Cambodia. The site, located along the Thailand-Cambodia frontier, has long been a flashpoint in the decades-old territorial dispute. The demolition of the Hindu deity’s statue in December 2025 and the subsequent installation of the Buddha statue in January 2026 have drawn sharp reactions from Cambodia, which accused Thailand of undermining de-escalation efforts.
Key highlights from the announcement include
-
Thailand demolished a Vishnu statue at the disputed border site in December 2025.
-
A Buddha statue has now been installed at the same location by Thai authorities.
-
Cambodia strongly objected, calling the move provocative and harmful to peace efforts.
-
India expressed concern over the demolition, citing hurt religious sentiments.
-
The incident follows deadly border clashes between Thai and Cambodian forces last year.
-
Both nations have traded accusations over cultural and territorial claims in the contested area.
The installation of the Buddha statue is being viewed as a symbolic assertion of Thai cultural identity in the disputed region. Cambodian officials, however, argue that the act violates the spirit of the ceasefire agreement signed after weeks of violent clashes in late 2025. The controversy has also drawn international attention, with India voicing concern over the demolition of the Vishnu idol, given its religious significance to Hindus.
Analysts note that the incident underscores the fragile nature of Thailand-Cambodia relations, where cultural symbols often become intertwined with territorial disputes. The replacement of one religious statue with another has amplified sensitivities, raising fears of renewed unrest along the border.
The row highlights the need for diplomatic dialogue and cultural sensitivity in managing disputes that involve both territorial claims and religious heritage. As tensions escalate, regional observers stress that both nations must prioritize peace-building measures to prevent further conflict.
Sources: Economic Times, The Straits Times, Firstpost
