India condemns vandalized Mahatma Gandhi statue in London ‘a violent act’

By Anjali Sharma

WASHINGTON – Indian High Commission in the UK on Tuesday strongly condemned the “shameful act” of vandalism of Mahatma Gandhi statue, the incident prompted a strong reaction from New Delhi.

The statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Tavistock Square, London was vandalized and defaced with anti-India graffiti on Monday days ahead of Gandhi Jayanti celebrations on October 2.

High Commission said, “High Commission of India, London is deeply saddened and strongly condemns the shameful act of vandalism of the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at Tavistock Square in London.” in a statement posted on X

“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 High Commission said.

The High Commission further stated that it has raised the issue with local authorities, urging them to take immediate action against the perpetrators.

The High Commission team also visited the site and is coordinating with local authorities for the restoration of the statue to its original dignity.