Australia Condemned for Vandalizing Mahatma Gandhi Statue; India Demands Swift Action
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India's Ministry of External Affairs has strongly condemned the vandalism and theft of a 426-kg bronze Mahatma Gandhi statue from the Australian Indian Community Centre in Melbourne's Rowville. The statue, valued at over AUD 200,000, was stolen by three unknown individuals in the early hours of January 12. A gift from the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), the statue was inaugurated by former Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison in 2021. The Victoria Police Knox Crime Investigation Unit is leading the investigation, warning scrap metal dealers to remain vigilant for anyone attempting to sell the statue. The police have also urged the public to report any suspicious activity. The incident has sparked concern within Melbourne's Indian-Australian community, with senior opposition figures condemning the vandalism and expressing solidarity with the community. India has urged Australian authorities to take immediate action to recover the missing statue and hold those responsible accountable. As the investigation continues, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting cultural icons and the sense of safety that multicultural communities should feel. The theft of the Mahatma Gandhi statue is a deeply distressing incident that has left many feeling shaken and concerned for the future.
