India Post News Service
CHICAGO: Indian Diaspora is shocked in the wake of reports that a temple in VotualevuTirath Dham Hindu Temple in Nadi area of Fiji was desecrated by some goons on December 16 night. Another temple at Waila in Nausori was damaged on December 25. Police have started investigations.
Three men entered the Shree Sanatan Dharam Ramayan Mandali at Waila in Nausori while others stood guard outside. Idols were destroyed, religious books were torn and money was stolen before they escaped, the report said. The police are also investigating the incident that took place on December 16 at Votualevu Tirath Dham Mandir in Nadi area.
Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama also expressed concern at the incident. Bainimarama has “stressed the importance of investigating this right away and getting the perpetrators to justice,” FijiSun quoted Commissioner of Police Brigadier-General Sitiveni Qiliho as saying.
The damage included paint poured over the images of deities Ganesha, Hanuman, etc; graffiti/slurs on walls; theft of donation box, sound system and other equipment; rubbish strewn in prayer area; etc. This was said to be the third such act at the temple.
This is hugely disturbing for the hard-working, harmonious and peaceful Fijian Hindu community – who have made lot of contributions to the nation and society – to receive such signals of hatred and anger.
Such incidents should not be acceptable in a country like Fiji which protects freedom of conscience, belief, and religion; and where communities of diverse faiths frequently come together to develop mutual understanding and respect, observed Rajan Zed, President of Universal Society of Hinduism.
Fijian President Major General Jioji Konusi Konrote, Prime Minister Rear Admiral Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama and Commissioner of Western Division need to visit this Hindu Temple to show solidarity with the Hindu-Fijians, meet the area Hindu community to reassure them and address a public rally in Votualevu condemning the desecration. Rajan also urged to ensure that such incidents do not happen in the future in order regain the reportedly falling confidence of the Hindu community.
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