London: In a deeply disturbing incident, the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at Tavistock Square in central London was vandalised, just days before Gandhi Jayanti—the annual celebration of the leader’s birth anniversary observed worldwide on October 2.
The statue, which portrays Gandhi in a meditative seated posture, was found with graffiti scrawled across its plinth, sparking outrage among the Indian community and prompting a swift response from the High Commission of India in London.
Indian Mission Condemns the Incident
In an official statement shared on social media, the Indian High Commission expressed strong condemnation of the act, calling it a “shameful and senseless” desecration of a globally respected figure who stood for peace and non-violence.
“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.
Officials from the High Commission have already visited the site and are working with local law enforcement and restoration teams to ensure the statue is cleaned and returned to its original state ahead of the upcoming commemorative event.
Gandhi Jayanti Preparations Disrupted
The defacement comes at a sensitive time, as preparations were underway for Gandhi Jayanti celebrations, an event traditionally attended by diplomats, British-Indian community leaders, peace activists, and local officials. Tavistock Square, where the statue has stood since its unveiling in 1968, is a well-known site of reflection and remembrance.
This incident has caused widespread disappointment among members of the Indian diaspora, many of whom consider the statue a symbol of peace and Indo-British friendship.
Investigation Underway
Local authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. As of Tuesday morning, no arrests have been made, and surveillance footage from the surrounding area is being reviewed to identify those responsible.
Community leaders are urging police to treat the act as a hate crime, citing the targeted nature of the vandalism and its timing ahead of a major cultural observance.
Broader Context
This isn’t the first time that statues of historical figures have been targeted in the UK. In recent years, public monuments have become flashpoints for political and social protest, though vandalising a peace icon like Gandhi has drawn especially sharp condemnation.
Across social media, British and Indian users alike voiced their frustration and disbelief, calling for greater protection of public memorials and urging authorities to bring the culprits to justice.
