‘Disappointed And Saddened’: UK Envoy On Vandalism Of Gandhi Statue In London

Last Updated:September 30, 2025, 19:41 IST

UK High Commissioner Lindy Cameron condemned the vandalism of Mahatma Gandhi’s statue at Tavistock Square.

UK High Commissioner Lindy Cameron said that she is ‘disappointed and saddened’ by the vandalism of Gandhiji’s statue.

UK High Commissioner to India Lindy Cameron said she is “deeply disappointed and saddened” after the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at Tavistock Square in London was vandalised, just days before Gandhi Jayanti celebrations scheduled for October 2. The statue’s plinth was found daubed with disturbing anti-India graffiti, prompting swift condemnation from the High Commission of India in London, which called the incident a “shameful act” and “an assault on the legacy of nonviolence.”

“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 mission said in a statement.

It added, “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.”

Officials confirmed that the desecration has been reported to local police and Camden Council authorities. Both have said investigations are underway.

Every year, Gandhi Jayanti- also recognised by the United Nations as the International Day of Non-Violence- is marked at the London memorial with floral tributes and renditions of the Mahatma’s favourite bhajans. This year’s commemorations were set to be held on October 2 at Tavistock Square.

The bronze statue, created by sculptor Fredda Brilliant with support from the India League, was unveiled in 1968. It honours Mahatma Gandhi’s days as a law student at the nearby University College London. The plinth inscription reads: “Mahatma Gandhi, 1869–1948.”

Over the years, the site has grown into a broader memorial for peace: a cherry tree planted in memory of Hiroshima victims, a field maple added in 1986 for the UN’s International Year of Peace and a granite monument unveiled in 1995 for conscientious objectors.

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