London: India’s High Commission to London has reacted strongly to the vandalism of Mahatma Gandhi’s in the city’s Tavistock Square. Calling out the “shameful act of vandalism”, the High Commission labelled it as “a violent attack on the idea of nonviolence.”
“@HCI_London is deeply saddened and strongly condemns the shameful act of vandalism of the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at Tavistock Square in London,” the High Commission posted on X.
“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.
It further noted that the matter has been taken up “strongly with local authorities for immediate action.”
“Our team is already on site, coordinating with authorities to restore the statue to its original dignity,” it was mentioned.
The iconic bronze statue of the Mahatma, created by Fredda Brilliant, was unveiled in 1968. The inauguration of this sculpture marked the beginning of the Gandhi’s birth centenary celebrations. He studied law at University College London between 1888 and 1891.
This action of vandalism comes months after Pro-Khalistani protestors held a demonstration near the Chatham House during external affairs minister S Jaishankar’s visit to the UK. India strongly condemned the incident after footage revealed breach of security during that high profile visit, calling them “provocative activities” of separatists and extremists.
