Just days before Gandhi Jayanti, a shocking act of vandalism has defaced the iconic Mahatma Gandhi statue at Tavistock Square Gardens in London, prompting Britain’s Metropolitan Police to launch an urgent investigation into what they are treating as a “racially aggravated” hate crime. The bronze statue, a symbol of non-violence, was marred with offensive graffiti on Sunday evening, sparking outrage from the Indian High Commission and global admirers of the revered leader.

The Metropolitan Police issued a statement on Tuesday, confirming: “We have begun an investigation into reports of criminal damage to a Mahatma Gandhi statue at Tavistock Square Gardens in Camden. The incident is being treated as racially aggravated and enquiries are ongoing. No arrests have been made at this time.” Authorities are appealing for witnesses, dashcam footage, or any information to help identify the culprits, emphasizing the seriousness of the racially motivated attack.

Camden Council deployed cleaning crews to assess the damage and begin restoration, aiming to restore the statue’s dignity before October 2, when Gandhi Jayanti—also the UN-designated International Day of Non-Violence—is celebrated with floral tributes and bhajans like “Vaishnav Jan To.” The Indian High Commission condemned the act as a “shameful” assault on Gandhi’s legacy, stating: “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. We have taken this up strongly with local authorities for immediate action, and our team is coordinating to restore the statue.”

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Unveiled in 1968 by then-UK Prime Minister Harold Wilson, the statue, crafted by sculptor Fredda Brilliant with support from the India League, commemorates Gandhi’s time as a law student at University College London. Its plinth bears the inscription: “Mahatma Gandhi, 1869-1948.” Situated in Tavistock Square’s “peace park,” surrounded by cherry trees honoring Hiroshima victims and other memorials, the site is a tranquil hub for reflection, drawing visitors inspired by Gandhi’s philosophy of Ahimsa.

The vandalism has struck a chord globally, especially with the Indian diaspora, as it coincides with preparations for Gandhi Jayanti. The statue, one of two Gandhi memorials in London alongside a newer one at Parliament Square, is central to annual ceremonies. The timing has intensified calls for justice, with community leaders demanding stronger protections for cultural landmarks. “This attack insults not just Gandhi but the universal values of peace and tolerance,” said a diaspora representative.

As police scour CCTV footage and engage with local communities, the incident has reignited discussions on combating hate crimes in the UK. The High Commission remains hopeful for a swift resolution, while restoration efforts race against time to ensure the statue stands proud for Thursday’s commemorations, reminding the world of Gandhi’s enduring message in the face of intolerance.

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