THAILAND/CAMBODIA, April 24, 2024 (Swadharma): For over a century, Cambodia and Thailand have been engaged in a contentious battle over the ownership of the ancient Hindu Preah Vihear Temple. Following Cambodia’s independence in 1954, Thailand took control of the temple, leading to ongoing conflicts between the two nations. The dispute between Cambodia and Thailand regarding the land near the temple has resulted in sporadic outbreaks of violence. One such clash took place in October 2008. In April 2009, Thai soldiers allegedly damaged 66 stones of the temple by firing across the border. In February 2010, the Cambodian government lodged a formal complaint with Google Maps for showing the natural watershed as the international border instead of the line depicted on the 1907 French map used by the International Court of Justice in 1962.

Preah Vihear Temple, situated atop a 1,722 foot cliff in the Dângrêk Mountains of the Preah Vihear province in Cambodia, stands as a significant Hindu temple constructed by the Khmer Empire. Throughout its history, the temple has undergone modifications and received support from various kings, resulting in a blend of different architectural styles. Unlike most Khmer temples, Preah Vihear Temple deviates from the conventional rectangular plan and instead follows a long north-south axis. The temple derives its name from the Preah Vihear province in Cambodia, where it is presently located. It is also closely associated with the Khao Phra Wihan National Park, which borders it in Thailand’s Sisaket Province. However, access to the temple from Thailand is no longer possible. Recognising its cultural significance, the temple was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2008, sparking further political maneuvering by both Thai and Cambodian nationalists. Not only does the temple hold immense cultural value for both countries, but it also has the potential to generate significant tourist revenue for Cambodia.

Much more of this extensive history at source.
https://swadharma.in/temple-thailand-cambodia-fighting-over-for-100-years/

Post Views: 610