Alterations made in design of proposed temple after Cambodia’s objections: Govt

New Delhi

Cambodia has expressed concern over a planned temple in Bihar that resembles Angkor Wat, a world heritage site and also a symbol in Cambodian national flag, following which substantial alterations have been made in the design of the proposed complex, government said today.

Replying to a written question in Lok Sabha, Minister of State in the External Affairs Ministry V K Singh said the Cambodian embassy here handed over a letter to MEA in June and a similar concern was expressed by their foreign ministry to the Indian Ambassador in Phnom Penh.

“The government of India has taken up the matter of the construction of ‘Viraat Ramayan Mandir’ with the Bihar government and the promoters of the temple. India has re-assured the Cambodian authorities that while the temple design is inspired by the Angkor Wat temple, it is not an exact replica,” Singh said.

After the intervention, the promoters of the temple have made “suitable and substantial” alterations in the design of the proposed temple complex, the minister added.

PTI