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Opposition member Premila Kumar has condemned recent acts of religious intolerance, targeting the Hindu community.

She is urging unity and justice in the wake of these disturbing events.

Speaking out against the desecration of the Ramayan and a stone-pelting incident during Ram Naumi celebrations, Kumar expresses her solidarity with Hindus in Fiji and around the world.

Kumar labeled the desecration of the Ramayan, which occurred at the start of Ram Naumi celebrations in Labasa, as “deliberate and calculated,” designed to hurt the sentiments and faith of the Hindu community.

She described such actions as intended to cause pain to those who hold their religious beliefs dear.

As Fiji prepares to celebrate the birth anniversary of Lord Ram tomorrow, Kumar emphasizes the growing concern over religious intolerance.

She claims that it is not an isolated case, as on the very first day of Ram Naumi, a temple in Bayview Heights was pelted with stones while prayers were taking place.

While the police were called to address the incident, Kumar states that it was not reported in the media, and many similar cases go unreported, which fuels the rising tide of religious intolerance and hatred in the country.

She also expresses frustration at leaders who fail to condemn such actions, stating that their silence only encourages further division.

However, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has also condemned sacrilege at the Vunicuicui Shiv Mandir in Labasa.

Rabuka had stated that the Coalition Government stands for human rights, including the freedom of expression and right to worship, and the rule of law, and as such, condemns such act.

The Prime Minister has met the Indian High Commissioner to Fiji, Suneet Metha, and discussed the incident.

Rabuka says he informed Metha that the government does not condone such action and will investigate the matter.

He stresses Fiji is home to many faiths and traditions, and we are stronger together, united by our mutual respect.

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