The World Hindu Federation (Pacific) has written to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging him to raise concerns with his Fijian counterpart, Sitiveni Rabuka, over a recent wave of attacks targeting Hindu temples, homes, and sacred symbols in Fiji.
In a strongly statement, WHF (Pacific) President Dr. Sunil Kumar expressed “deep concern” over the “recent spate of desecrations” involving the theft of sacred items and vandalism of religious sites.
“In the past few days, families in Fiji have reported disturbing incidents, including the theft of a sacred Shiv Ling and statues from homes and temple precincts, including acts of vandalism against Hindus,” Dr. Kumar said.
“These attacks have caused widespread distress and insecurity within the Hindu community.”
He criticised what he called a pattern of inaction and recurring attacks, despite previous public condemnations.
“Despite repeated condemnations in the past, such crimes continue with alarming frequency.”
“We are compelled to ask why these acts of religious disrespect persist and whether the political climate under Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has emboldened such behaviour.”
The WHF has called on Prime Minister Modi, who is currently hosting Rabuka on an official visit to India, to directly raise the matter during bilateral talks.
“It is crucial that Mr. Rabuka explains how his government plans to protect the Hindu minority community from these disrespectful attacks and how he can ensure the sanctity of our places of worship is protected,” Dr. Kumar said.
The organisation has urged the Fijian Government to take urgent and concrete action to protect all religious groups and reaffirm Fiji’s long-standing values of peace, mutual respect, and multiracialism.
“The World Hindu Federation (Pacific) calls on the Government of Fiji to uphold its responsibility to safeguard all religious communities and preserve social harmony.”