Mahatma Gandhi’s statue vandalised in London before Gandhi Jayanti, Indian mission calls it ‘attack on nonviolence’

Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary on October 2 is also marked as the International Day of Nonviolence.

A statue of Mahatma Gandhi at Tavistock Square in London was vandalised just days before Gandhi Jayanti, drawing strong criticism from the Indian high commission.

Statue defaced ahead of October 2 celebrations

According to PTI, the bronze statue was defaced with graffiti on its plinth. The incident happened only a few days before floral tributes were set to be offered on October 2. Photos of the vandalised statue quickly circulated on social media.

Indian mission condemns the act

The Indian high commission in London strongly condemned the vandalism, calling it a “violent attack on the idea of nonviolence”. Officials said they have raised the matter with local authorities and are working to restore the statue to its “original dignity”.

Statement shared on X

In a post on X, the mission wrote, “@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.”

The post further 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 begin inquiry

Officials in London have confirmed they are looking into the case. The Indian high commission stressed that quick measures are being coordinated to ensure the statue regains its proper condition.

History of the statue in London

The Gandhi statue at Tavistock Square has been a key spot for annual Gandhi Jayanti commemorations, where floral tributes are offered every year. The bronze structure was installed with the support of the India League and was unveiled in 1968. The plinth carries the inscription, “Mahatma Gandhi, 1869-1948”. Gandhi had earlier studied law at University College London, situated nearby.