Gandhi’s statue vandalised in London ahead of birth anniversary, India condemns ‘shameful act’

A statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Tavistock Square London was defaced just days before his birth anniversary sparking outrage and strong condemnation from the Indian high commission in the United Kingdom. The vandalism occurred ahead of Gandhi Jayanti celebrations scheduled for October 2 at the site which also marks the international day of nonviolence according to news agency PTI.

According to reports the plinth of the bronze statue was covered with graffiti with images of the damage circulating widely on social media. The Indian high commission described the act as a violent attack on the idea of nonviolence and on the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi Three days before the commemorations it expressed deep sadness and urged immediate restoration of the statue

In a statement posted on X the high commission said @HCI_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 nonviolence three days before the international day of nonviolence and on the legacy of the Mahatma It added @HCI_London has 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

Local authorities confirmed they are investigating the incident Gandhi Jayanti is observed annually at the statue in London with floral tributes The bronze memorial supported by the India League was unveiled in 1968 The plinth bears the inscription Mahatma Gandhi 1869-1948 Gandhi studied law at the nearby University College London