The Shree Sanatan Dharm Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji has voiced its strong condemnation of the desecration of sacred texts, emphasizing the significance these scriptures hold for communities. The organization’s National President, Dhirendra Nand, expressed solidarity with the devotees of the Vunicuicui Shiv Mandir in Labasa following a recent sacrilegious act where pages from the Ramayana were torn out, a violation seen as deeply offensive to the Hindu faith. Nand highlighted that sacred texts are not merely books but represent the moral and ethical underpinnings of faith traditions, offering wisdom and spiritual solace.
In his statements, Nand underscored the potential consequences of disregarding these texts, which threaten the core values of mutual respect and religious harmony that are vital to Fijian society. He has called upon authorities to launch a thorough investigation into the incident and ensure that those responsible are held accountable. His concerns are echoed by Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad, who also condemned the act and stressed the urgent need for police action, especially given the timing coinciding with Hindu celebrations marking the birth of Lord Rama.
This incident follows an alarming trend of desecration of religious institutions in Fiji, including other temples that have experienced theft and vandalism. Such acts collectively highlight the growing concern regarding respect for religious diversity in the nation. The call for protective measures for sacred spaces and meaningful engagement among communities represents a hopeful step toward fostering a culture of understanding and respect.
As Fiji grapples with these challenges, leaders like Nand and Prasad advocate for a unified stance against acts of intolerance, reinforcing the belief that dialogue and respect can help heal societal rifts.
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