Irish President Michael D. Higgins strongly condemned recent attacks on members of the Indian community. He called these attacks “despicable” and said they betray Ireland’s core values.

Moreover, Higgins expressed “deep gratitude” for the Indian community’s contributions to Ireland. He praised their work in medicine, nursing, care, culture, business, and enterprise. “Their presence, their work, their culture have been a source of enrichment and generosity to our shared life,” he said.

Racial Violence Sparks Growing Concern

Recently, Indian residents in Ireland faced several violent attacks. As a result, the Indian Embassy in Dublin warned citizens to stay alert. It urged them to avoid deserted areas due to “an increase in physical attacks” against Indians.

President Calls for Respect and Unity

Furthermore, Higgins reminded everyone of the strong historical ties between India and Ireland. He highlighted their shared struggles for independence and noted Irishwoman Margaret Cousins’ role in founding the All India Women’s Conference. Higgins stated that such violence “diminish all of us” and hide the many benefits Indians bring to Ireland. He also warned that “messages of hate or incitement to violence,” especially spread on social media, damage Ireland’s traditions of hospitality and care.

“These principles must apply to all who form part of Irish society today, without exception,” Higgins stressed. He emphasized that Ireland must remain a place “where all communities can live in safety, dignity, and mutual respect.”

Recent Attacks Highlight Urgent Need for Action

On July 19, a 40-year-old Indian Amazon worker, who had been in Ireland only three weeks, suffered a brutal attack in Tallaght, Dublin. A gang of teenagers beat him, stabbed his face, and partially stripped him. Authorities now treat this as a possible hate crime.

Jennifer Murray, an Irish woman who intervened, said in a video, “at least four Indian men and another man have been facially stabbed by this gang of teenagers.” She added that the victim required a brain scan and will be “completely scarred for life.”