Deputy PM Condemns Series of Violent Attacks on Indian Community, Pledges Strong Action
Dublin: Ireland’s Deputy Prime Minister Simon Harris has expressed deep concern over a spate of serious assaults targeting people of Indian origin, pledging firm government action against those responsible.
Speaking to the media, Harris described the brutal attack on a six-year-old Indian girl in Waterford as a “horrific and heartbreaking incident”. He noted that approximately 80,000 people of Indian origin live in Ireland, stressing that the country’s healthcare sector — and many other industries — rely heavily on their contributions.
“Ireland is a country that rejects racism in all its forms,” Harris said, urging the public to speak out and condemn such acts. He added that one of the most disturbing aspects of the recent violence is the involvement of very young perpetrators.
Engagement with the Indian Community
Harris is scheduled to meet today with representatives of the Ireland–India Council to hear first-hand the concerns of the Indian community in the wake of the attacks. Tomorrow, he will hold talks with officials from the Indian Embassy and community leaders.
Recent Incidents Under Investigation
According to Gardaí, investigations are ongoing into five major assaults targeting Indians in Dublin and Waterford over the past 22 days. No arrests have yet been made.
Victims include:
- A six-year-old girl in Waterford who remains traumatised.
- Chef Laxman Das, brutally attacked in Dublin.
- An Indian-origin taxi driver assaulted with a bottle in Ballymun.
In another case, a 60-year-old man was attacked while waiting for a bus with his family in Dublin. His daughter reported that two boys—both under the age of 10—initially approached asking for a selfie before taunting him, attempting to steal his wallet, and making inappropriate physical gestures.
“This happened in front of his children. We felt powerless, knowing the racist climate and the legal limitations when it comes to children,” she wrote in a social media post, urging the government to review laws and hold minors accountable for serious offences.
Growing Concern and Calls for Change
The incidents have sparked widespread outrage and protest on social media, with members of the Indian community and other residents calling for stronger protections.
Some refugees in Ireland have also reported being targeted amid rhetoric portraying them as a public threat. Harris stressed that no one — regardless of background — should feel unsafe in public spaces.
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