Gandhi statue at SFU vandalized

The statue of legendary peace activist Mahatma Gandhi at SFU appears to have been vandalized.

The Burnaby RCMP says it received reports that the statue’s head had been removed Monday around 8:30 p.m. Investigators believe the removal was “deliberate,” adding they are now looking for witnesses and video.

It’s unclear when exactly vandals struck, though the RCMP says it’s believed a power tool was used.

The base of the Mahatma Gandhi bust at SFU on Tuesday March 28th, 2023. (CityNews Image)

“Burnaby RCMP is aware that Gandhi statues have been damaged in other areas of Canada in the past. Police are looking at all aspects of this incident, including the possible motivation,” said Corp. Mike Kalanj. “We are urging any witnesses, or anyone with information, to come forward.”

Pictures shared on social media show the bust of the likeness of the politician without the head attached.

Following the damage, the Indian consulate took to Twitter Monday night to “condemn the heinous crime of vandalizing the statue of harbinger of peace Mahatma Gandhiji.”

“The Canadian authorities are urged to investigate the matter urgently and bring the perpetrators to justice swiftly,” the tweet continues.

We strongly condemn heinous crime of vandalizing the statute of harbinger of peace Mahatma Gandhiji, @SFU Burnaby campus. The Canadian authorities are urged to investigate the matter urgently and bring the perpetrators to justice swiftly.@MEAIndia @GAC_Corporate @MayorofBurnaby

— India in Vancouver (@cgivancouver) March 28, 2023

No one has taken responsibility for the vandalism. It’s unclear when or if the statue will be replaced.

Gandhi is famed for leading India to its independence from the United Kingdom in 1947.

According to the City of Burnaby, the bronze statue was donated to the university by the East Indian community of B.C.

It was created by the Wagh Brothers in Bombay, India, and sits across the south concourse from the art gallery at SFU.