Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Professor Biman Prasad, has condemned the desecration of the Holy Ramayan at the Vunicuicui Shiv Mandir in Labasa, calling it a heinous act of sacrilege that cannot be tolerated. This troubling incident occurred during a significant time for the Hindu community, as they were engaged in prayers marking the birth of Lord Rama.
Professor Prasad described the act as inexcusable, intolerable, and unforgivable, and he urged police to conduct an immediate investigation to hold those responsible accountable. He emphasized that disrespecting any sacred text is not merely a crime but can also foster social unrest and degrade the moral fabric of Fiji’s multi-ethnic and multi-religious community.
The Deputy Prime Minister commended the temple devotees for their remarkable restraint amidst the outrage, encouraging them to pray for peace and wisdom for those who perpetrated the act. He acknowledged that incidents like this can stir racial tensions at a time when Fiji is pursuing healing through the Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
Concerns have been raised about a growing trend of disrespect towards places of worship, with similar incidents of vandalism reported across the islands. Previous acts of sacrilege have included theft and attacks on various religious sites, increasing the urgency for community leaders and authorities to bolster protective measures for these sacred spaces.
In a hopeful note, community leaders emphasize the need for dialogue and mutual respect among different faiths. They believe that through continued engagement and understanding, Fiji can combat intolerance and foster a culture of respect, ultimately contributing to a harmonious society where all beliefs are honored. The response to this incident symbolizes a collective aspiration for peace and unity amid diversity, reinforcing the values that bind the community together.
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