The Indian government has voiced strong condemnation over the recent theft of a bronze statue of Mahatma Gandhi from the Australian Indian Community Centre in Rowville, Melbourne. This incident, which occurred last month, has sparked calls for justice and accountability as local authorities launch an investigation into the crime.
Investigation Underway
Victoria Police are actively pursuing leads regarding the theft and have issued warnings to scrap metal dealers to be vigilant against any attempts to sell the statue. The statue, a significant symbol of Indian heritage, was donated to the community centre by the Indian government in 2021. Randhir Jaiswa, spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs, stated that the government has raised the issue with Australian authorities, urging for immediate action to locate the statue and apprehend those responsible.
“We strongly condemn the vandalization and removal of the Mahatma Gandhi statue,” Jaiswa remarked in a statement shared on social media, emphasising the need for swift recovery of the stolen piece and justice for the community.
Community Impact
Vasan Srinivasan, chair of the Australian Indian Community Charitable Trust, highlighted the significance of the statue as an emblem of India’s struggle for independence and the principles of non-violent resistance that Gandhi championed. “We have lost it now. There is only one in Victoria,” he lamented, reflecting on the statue’s cultural importance.
Despite the ongoing challenges faced by Australia’s Indian diaspora, including incidents of anti-immigration sentiment, Srinivasan expressed a belief that the theft was not racially motivated, noting the absence of hate slogans or graffiti at the scene. However, the statue has previously faced vandalism, including an attempted beheading shortly after its unveiling by former Prime Minister Scott Morrison and other defacements in the following years.
Political Reactions
Evan Mulholland, the opposition spokesperson for multicultural affairs in Victoria, has expressed solidarity with the Indian-Australian community. He emphasized that all multicultural communities should feel secure and respected across the state. “Our multicultural communities should feel safe and respected in every suburb of this state,” he stated, reinforcing the importance of inclusivity and safety in a diverse society.
The Broader Context
The theft of the Gandhi statue is not an isolated incident. Statues of the revered leader have become focal points for controversy in various countries, particularly concerning historical critiques of Gandhi’s views on race. As such discussions continue, the incident in Melbourne serves as a reminder of the complex legacy of historical figures and the ongoing impact on contemporary society.
Why it Matters
The theft of the Gandhi statue in Melbourne underscores significant cultural tensions and the importance of preserving historical symbols that represent shared values. Beyond the immediate loss to the community, this incident raises broader questions about respect for cultural heritage in multicultural societies. As investigations unfold, the response will not only reflect on the accountability of the perpetrators but also on how Australia navigates its multicultural identity amidst rising anti-immigrant sentiments. The resolution of this case could set a precedent for the protection of cultural identities within the nation, emphasising the need for ongoing dialogue and respect in increasingly diverse communities.
