Leaders Across Fiji Condemn Desecration of Holy Ramayan at Labasa Temple

Leaders from across Fiji have strongly condemned the recent act of sacrilege at the Vunicuicui Shiv Mandir in Labasa, where pages of the Holy Ramayan were torn apart.

The desecration occurred during the holy period when Hindus are marking the birth of Lord Rama through prayers and the reading of scriptures.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka also expressed deep concern, calling the incident an act of disrespect.

He met with the Indian High Commissioner to Fiji, His Excellency Mr Suneet Metha, to discuss the matter.

The Prime Minister stated that the government does not condone such actions and assured the public that the police are investigating.

"Every place of worship or any other sacred space deserves to be respected and protected," said Rabuka, stressing the importance of unity and mutual respect in Fiji’s diverse society.

Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad has called for an immediate police investigation into the incident.

He emphasised that the desecration of the Holy Ramayan, which is sacred to Hindus, must be condemned in the strongest terms. He described the act as sacrilege, saying, “The desecration of the Holy Ramayan or indeed any holy scripture of all religions is clearly sacrilege and a serious crime.” He urged the authorities to hold those responsible accountable.

Former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum also shared his sadness over the desecration.

He condemned the act as unacceptable and expressed solidarity with the Hindu community in Labasa and across Fiji.

“We must stand in solidarity with Fijian Hindus and all faith groups that are targets of such hateful behaviour,” said Sayed-Khaiyum.

He highlighted the importance of leadership that actively combats intolerance and promotes respect and understanding for all citizens, regardless of their faith.

Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry, the leader of the Labour Party, condemned the act as an insult not only to the Hindu community but also to the values of respect and tolerance that form the foundation of Fiji’s democratic society.

“The Ramayana is more than a sacred text; it embodies timeless values of righteousness, duty, and devotion,” Chaudhry explained.

He called for a thorough investigation and justice for the perpetrators. He reminded Fijians that they have lived in harmony for over a century and urged against allowing such incidents to sow division or hatred within the multiracial society.

TISI Sangam Fiji, under the leadership of President Hon. Parveen Bala, has also vehemently condemned the desecration.

The organisation called the act inexcusable and intolerable, emphasising that it represents a direct attack on the religious freedom and sanctity cherished by Fijians.

The incident occurred during the sacred period of Ram Naumi, a time when Hindus gather for nightly prayers to celebrate the birth of Lord Rama.

TISI Sangam Fiji has called for an immediate and thorough police investigation, urging that those responsible be brought to justice without delay.

The desecration of the Holy Ramayan has sparked widespread outrage, with leaders across Fiji calling for justice and reminding the nation of the need for tolerance and respect for all religious beliefs.