Fiji Labour Party Leader Mahendra Chaudhry has strongly denounced the act of sacrilege which led to the desecration of the Holy Ramayan at the Vunicuicui Shiv Mandir in Labasa.
Chaudhry says the incident occurred during the holy week when Hindus are celebrating the festival of Ram Naumi, with the reading of scriptures from the Ramayan every evening.
He says the desecration of the Holy Ramayan is not only a sacrilegious act against the Hindu community, it is an insult to the very principle of respect and tolerance for all religions and beliefs, embodied in a democratic society.
Chaudhry says the Ramayan is more than a sacred text; it is a cornerstone of Hindu philosophy, embodying timeless values of righteousness, duty and devotion.
He says this act of desecration wounds the hearts of millions who draw strength and wisdom from its teachings.
Chaudhry has condemned this hateful act and is urging the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation, ensuring that the perpetrators are brought to justice.
He says there is no place for such displays of religious intolerance in our multiracial society.
The former Prime Minister says we have lived together for more than a century respecting each other’s customs, traditions and religious beliefs.
He adds that let us not allow such incidents from petty minded vandals to create hatred or discord in our society.
Police are investigating the incident.
