THE SOLUTION: MOVE THE HINDU TEMPLE INTO CAMBODIA, M_ _JID INDIA STYLE.

 Rule No 1: No Names.

OSTB: This comment is originally by Norman Fernandez. Obviously I have changed the name. 

MGR CAN RESOLVE THE HINDU TEMPLE DISPUTE BETWEEN CAMBODIA AND THAILAND*
-by Norman Fernandez-

At the core of the ongoing dispute ( and conflict ) between Cambodia and Thailand has been competing claims of ownership of the ancient Hindu temples of Prasat Ta Muen Thom and Preah Vihear, which are perched on the Dângrêk Mountains that form a natural border between Cambodia and Thailand.

 

 

In 1962, the ICJ ruled that the area in the vicinity of Preah Vihear was part of Cambodian territory and, in 2013, again ruled in favour of Cambodia after it sought clarification of jurisdiction of the land around the temple.

Here’s the problem. Thailand's consistent stand is that it does not recognise the ruling of the ICJ and insists on a resolution by bilateral engagement between both countries without the involvement of third parties.

MGR is the current chair of the association, and has engaged with both Cambodia and Thailand with the aim of de-escalating tension.

MGR has presented a ceasefire proposal to both sides which reportedly has been accepted by Cambodia.

MGR has experience resolving Hindu Temple disputes, from the Hindu temple incident in Kg R-wa to the recent dispute in M--jid India.

As such, MGR may be able to once again present a solution. Perhaps, to move the temple from the disputed site could always be an option.

Both Cambodia and Thailand should trust MGR for a win-win solution.

-Norman Fernandez-

My Comments: 

• Move the Hindu Temple into Cambodia. 
• Ok the Thais may object. 
• Move it first and then build a duplicate in Thailand. 
• Ok the Thais may object. 
• Keep the original in Thailand and build a duplicate in Cambodia. 
• The Cambodians may object.

How about January to June the Thais manage the site. July to December the Cambodians manage the site. Both Thailand and Cambodia may object.

How about declaring only the temple area an international zone. Put a fence around the temple area and then set up a joint management committee with a neutral Hindu chairman appointed by India to manage the temple. All maintenance and management of the temple shall be funded from donations and collections. Annual surpluses shall be split 50/50 between the Thais and Cambodians.  Just thinking aloud.

The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT.