The Trinidad and Tobago Council of Evangelical Churches (TTCEC) is describing a recent appalling act of violence, the Bharatiya Vidya Abhyas Mandali, known as the Watts Street temple, as a despicable act of vandalism.
On Wednesday, several murtis within a sacred courtyard were destroyed, with three life-sized murtis of Hindu deities Shiva, Hanuman, and Durga being decapitated.
In a statement the TTCEC said, “ This senseless act of sacrilege has left the community in shock and disbelief. The Trinidad & Tobago Council of Evangelical Churches stands in solidarity with the Hindu community, and unequivocally condemns this abhorrent attack on the Watts Street temple. Regardless of one’s religious beliefs or practices, violence and desecration against places of worship are intolerable and must be condemned in the strongest terms. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to the members of the Hindu community, who have been deeply affected by this act of vandalism.”
It added that this desecration strikes at the very heart of religious freedom and tolerance.
“ It is deeply concerning that such incidents are not isolated occurrences, but part of a distressing series of targeted attacks on places of worship. These acts of violence have no place in our society.”
The Trinidad and Tobago Council of Evangelical Churches urged law enforcement authorities to swiftly investigate this heinous crime and bring the perpetrators to justice. Furthermore, it called upon all citizens to stand together in solidarity against religious intolerance and hatred.
“ Now more than ever, it is imperative that we foster a society where individuals of all faiths can worship peacefully, free from fear and discrimination. Let us reaffirm our commitment to upholding the principles of respect, tolerance, and coexistence, irrespective of religious affiliations or beliefs. Together, let us condemn these reprehensible acts and strive towards building a society where the sanctity of all places of worship is respected and protected. May peace, understanding, and harmony prevail in Trinidad and Tobago,” it said.