A statue of Mahatma Gandhi at Tavistock Square in London was vandalised on Monday, just three days ahead of the annual Gandhi Jayanti observance. The Indian High Commission in London strongly condemned the incident, calling it not just an act of vandalism but a direct assault on the universal values of peace and non-violence symbolised by the Father of the Nation.

The plinth of the bronze statue, which shows Gandhi in a seated meditative posture, was found smeared with graffiti. High Commission officials immediately reported the matter to the Metropolitan Police and the Camden Council authorities, while also taking steps to ensure that the monument would be restored in time for the October 2 Gandhi Jayanti commemoration.

Indian Mission Condemns Act

In a statement shared on social media, the High Commission of India said it was “deeply saddened and strongly condemns the shameful act of vandalism of the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at Tavistock Square in London.” The mission added that its team was already on site and coordinating with local authorities for swift restoration.

Calling it more than a case of mere damage to property, the mission stressed, “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 underlined that the matter had been taken up strongly with the concerned authorities, demanding immediate action to safeguard such heritage monuments.

The timing of the incident, days before Gandhi Jayanti and the UN-designated International Day of Non-Violence, has drawn concern among the Indian community in the United Kingdom, who see the act as a deliberate provocation.

Annual Gandhi Jayanti Observance

Every year on October 2, Tavistock Square hosts a solemn gathering to mark Gandhi Jayanti. Dignitaries, members of the Indian diaspora, and admirers of Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy assemble at the site to pay floral tributes. Gandhiji’s favourite bhajans are sung as part of the ceremony, and the event highlights his contributions to the global peace movement.

The date is also observed internationally as the International Day of Non-Violence, following a United Nations resolution passed in 2007 at India’s initiative. The Tavistock Square statue, one of several Gandhi memorials around the world, plays a central role in the London observance of this day each year, making the latest act of vandalism especially sensitive.

This year’s event is expected to see enhanced focus on security and restoration, as officials work to ensure that the commemorations continue without disruption.

Historical Significance of the Statue

The Gandhi statue at Tavistock Square was unveiled in 1968 with the support of the India League, as a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi’s association with London during his days as a law student at University College London. The work depicts him in a traditional meditative posture, symbolising his philosophy of simplicity, truth, and non-violence.

The inscription on the plinth reads: “Mahatma Gandhi, 1869-1948”, serving as a reminder of the enduring legacy of India’s freedom leader. Over the decades, the monument has become a site of reflection for peace movements, and an important landmark for both locals and international visitors.

The Metropolitan Police and Camden Council authorities have confirmed that they are investigating the incident. While no arrests have been reported yet, officials said they are reviewing available evidence to identify those responsible for defacing the monument.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share