The High Commission of India has strongly condemned the desecration of Mahatma Gandhi’s statue at Tavistock Square in London, which was found vandalised on Monday, just days before the annual Gandhi Jayanti observance.
Graffiti discovered on iconic monument
The plinth of the bronze statue, depicting the Father of the Nation in a seated meditative pose, was discovered daubed with disturbing graffiti. The act comes barely three days before October 2, which is observed worldwide as Gandhi Jayanti and the International Day of Non-Violence.
Officials from the Indian mission were immediately dispatched to the site to coordinate with local authorities. The High Commission said it has reported the matter to the Metropolitan Police and the Camden Council, pressing for swift action.
Indian mission issues strong condemnation
In a statement posted on social media, the High Commission of India in London expressed deep disappointment.
“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. 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,” the statement read.
It added that the mission has taken up the issue strongly with the local authorities and is working with them to restore the statue to its original dignity.
Annual Gandhi Jayanti events
Every year, Gandhi Jayanti is commemorated at Tavistock Square with floral tributes, prayers, and renditions of Gandhiji’s favourite bhajans. The date, October 2, marks his birth anniversary and has been designated by the United Nations as the International Day of Non-Violence.
The vandalism has cast a shadow over this year’s commemorations, but officials confirmed that the event will go ahead as planned. “We will not allow such acts of hatred to diminish Gandhi’s enduring message of peace,” an official said.
History of the statue
The Gandhi statue at Tavistock Square was unveiled in 1968 with the backing of the India League, as a tribute to his time as a law student at the nearby University College London. The inscription on the plinth reads: “Mahatma Gandhi, 1869–1948.”
Over the decades, the statue has become a focal point for peace marches, commemorative gatherings, and tributes to Gandhi’s legacy. Monday’s defacement marks a rare incident targeting the memorial.
Investigation underway
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that they are investigating the reports of vandalism. Camden Council officials have also pledged cooperation to ensure the swift restoration of the monument. Forensic checks and CCTV reviews are expected to be part of the investigation.
Authorities are yet to identify those responsible. However, the act has drawn widespread criticism from the Indian community in the UK and peace advocacy groups, who have urged for stronger measures to protect cultural and historical monuments.
Conclusion
The attack on the Gandhi statue is being viewed not only as an act of vandalism but also as a symbolic affront to the global ideals of peace and non-violence. As the restoration begins, the upcoming Gandhi Jayanti commemorations in London are expected to reaffirm the values the Mahatma stood for.