Iconic Gandhi statue in London vandalized; India reacts
What's the story
The statue of Mahatma Gandhi at Tavistock Square in London was vandalized on Monday. The incident comes just days before the annual Gandhi Jayanti celebrations on October 2, which is also observed as the International Day of Non-Violence by the United Nations. The High Commission of India has condemned this act, calling it a "violent attack on the idea of non-violence."
Restoration underway
Indian High Commission in London condemned the act
In a statement on social media, the commission said, "The High Commission of India...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 non-violence, three days before the International Day of Non-Violence, and on the legacy of the Mahatma." The commission also reported that officials are on-site coordinating with local authorities to restore the monument.
Historical context
Know more about the statue
The bronze statue, which depicts Gandhi in a seated meditative pose, was unveiled in 1968. It was sculpted by Fredda Brilliant with support from the India League to commemorate Gandhi's time as a law student at University College London. The plinth bears the inscription: "Mahatma Gandhi, 1869-1948." Over the years, peace memorials have been added around it, including a cherry tree for Hiroshima victims and a granite memorial for conscientious objectors.
Ongoing investigation
Statue is focal point for annual Gandhi Jayanti celebrations
The Metropolitan Police and the Camden Council are investigating the vandalism incident. The statue is a focal point for annual Gandhi Jayanti celebrations, where floral tributes are offered and Gandhi's favorite bhajans are played. It was created with the backing of the India League as a nod to Gandhi's days as a law student at the nearby University College London.