Minister warns of harsh action after temple vandalism

The Government has strongly condemned a series of vandalism incidents targeting Hindu temples, warning those responsible will face severe punishment.

Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs Charan Jeath Singh spoke out following the latest incident at the Kulukulu Ram Temple in Sigatoka on Monday, describing the attacks as deeply troubling and a threat to Fiji’s social harmony.

“I am deeply concerned and saddened by the recent acts of vandalism at several Hindu temples in the Western Division,” Singh said.

“These acts are not only criminal, but a direct attack on the values of respect, peace and religious harmony that we hold dear as a nation.”

He said places of worship, regardless of faith, must always be respected and protected.

“Our places of worship, of all faiths, are sacred spaces and must never be targeted or desecrated,” he said.

Singh said the Coalition Government strongly condemned the incidents and any form of religious intolerance or hatred.

He warned that authorities would act decisively against those responsible.

“We will not tolerate this behaviour. Anyone found responsible will face the full force of the law, including imprisonment,” he said.

Singh also reminded the public that Fiji’s strength lay in its diversity and long-standing tradition of peaceful coexistence.

“We are a multi-racial society. We have lived together in harmony for generations, and everyone must respect each other’s religion, culture and ethnicity,” he said.

The recent incidents have sparked national concern, with community leaders calling for calm and unity amid fears that repeated attacks could undermine social cohesion.