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Key Points

The Mahatma Gandhi statue in London's Tavistock Square has been vandalized just days before Gandhi Jayanti celebrations. Indian authorities have strongly condemned what they call a "shameful act" and violent attack on non-violence ideals. London police and local council are actively investigating the incident that involved offensive anti-India graffiti. The statue has been a focal point for annual Gandhi Jayanti commemorations since its installation in 1968.

Key Points: London Police Probe Mahatma Gandhi Statue Vandalism in Tavistock Square

  • London's Tavistock Square Gandhi statue defaced with anti-India graffiti just before Gandhi Jayanti
  • Indian officials on site coordinating restoration with local authorities
  • Bronze statue depicts Gandhi in seated meditative posture since 1968 installation
  • Incident disrupts square's symbolic status as London's designated "peace park"
  • Metropolitan Police and Camden Council confirm active investigation into vandalism
  • United Nations recognizes October 2 as International Day of Non-Violence
3 min read

Gandhi statue vandalism: India raises concerns, London Police say probe underway

Indian High Commission condemns "shameful" vandalism of Gandhi statue days before International Day of Non-Violence, as London authorities investigate the incident.

"This is not just vandalism, but a violent attack on the idea of non-violence - High Commission of India"

London, Sep 30

After Mahatma Gandhi's statue at Tavistock Square in London was vandalised, just days before Gandhi Jayanti celebrations are to be held at the site on October 2, authorities have initiated an investigation into the matter.

The incident, which occurred on Monday (local time), has drawn sharp condemnation from the High Commission of India, which described the act as "shameful" and an attack on the ideals of peace and non-violence.

In a statement, the Indian mission said the damage had been reported to local authorities and that its officials were already on the ground to coordinate efforts to restore the monument.

"The High Commission of India in London is deeply saddened and strongly condemns the shameful act of vandalism of the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at Tavistock Square in London," the statement read.

"This is not just vandalism, but a violent attack on the idea of non-violence, three days before the International Day of Non-Violence, and on the legacy of the Mahatma. We have taken this up strongly with local authorities for immediate action, and our team is already on site, coordinating with authorities to restore the statue to its original dignity," it added.

The plinth of the bronze statue, which portrays Gandhi in a seated meditative posture, was found covered with offensive anti-India graffiti.

The Metropolitan Police and Camden Council have confirmed that they are investigating the case of vandalism.

The statue has been a focal point of Gandhi Jayanti commemorations in London, where each year tributes are offered on October 2 through flowers and renditions of Gandhi's favourite bhajans.

The United Nations has also designated the day as the 'International Day of Non-Violence', adding to its global significance.

The monument itself was unveiled in 1968, sculpted by Fredda Brilliant with the support of the India League, as a reminder of Gandhi's student years at University College London.

The plinth bears the inscription: 'Mahatma Gandhi, 1869–1948'.

Over the years, Tavistock Square has grown into a centre of remembrance and peace, with several memorials added around the statue.

These include a cherry tree planted for the victims of Hiroshima, a field maple commemorating the United Nations' International Year of Peace in 1986, and a granite memorial unveiled in 1995 honouring conscientious objectors.

Because of these additions, the square has earned recognition as London's "peace park".

The latest act of desecration has therefore not only angered the Indian community but also disturbed the wider symbolism of the square as a space dedicated to peace and non-violence.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
As an Indian living in London, this breaks my heart. Every year we gather at Tavistock Square to celebrate Gandhi Jayanti with bhajans and flowers. This vandalism attacks not just a statue but the very spirit of peace that the square represents.
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Michael C
While I strongly condemn this vandalism, I hope the investigation focuses on finding the perpetrators rather than escalating diplomatic tensions. The "peace park" should remain a place of unity, not division.
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Arjun K
Bapu's teachings are more relevant today than ever. This cowardly act only strengthens our resolve to uphold his principles. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳 The London police must ensure swift justice and better protection for such important monuments.
S
Sarah B
As someone who regularly visits Tavistock Square, I'm appalled. The square is meant to be a sanctuary of peace with memorials for Hiroshima victims and conscientious objectors. Vandalizing Gandhi's statue violates the very essence of this sacred space.
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Vikram M
This incident shows why we need more awareness about Gandhi's global impact beyond just India. He studied in London and his philosophy influenced civil rights movements worldwide. Hope the restoration happens before October 2nd celebrations.

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