Irish President Michael D Higgins has condemned the recent surge in racist attacks targeting the Indian diaspora in Ireland. In a statement issued on Tuesday, he expressed a “deep sense of gratitude” to the Indian community for its contributions to Irish society.
“We are all mindful of the immense contribution this community has made, and continues to make, to so many aspects of Irish life, in medicine, nursing, the caring professions, in cultural life, in business and enterprise, to cite just some,” the president’s statement read.
“Their presence, their work, their culture, have been a source of enrichment and generosity to our shared life,” he added.
Attacks Spark Outrage
The statement follows a series of disturbing incidents involving members of the Indian community. The latest case involved a six-year-old Indian girl who was allegedly assaulted and hit in the private parts by a group of children.
“The recent despicable attacks on members of the Indian community stand in stark contradiction to the values that we as a people hold dear,” Higgins said.
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“That any person in Ireland, particularly any young person, should be drawn into such behaviour through manipulation or provocation is to be unequivocally condemned,” the statement continued.
He warned that whether driven by “ignorance or malice,” such acts harm both victims and the country’s reputation. “Such acts diminish all of us and obscure the immeasurable benefits the people of India have brought to the life of this country,” Higgins said.
Deputy Prime Minister Joins in Condemnation
Ireland’s Deputy Prime Minister, Simon Harris, also expressed solidarity with the Indian community. Today, I met representatives of Ireland’s Indian community. I completely condemn the despicable acts of violence and racism that we have seen against some members of the Indian community in recent weeks,” he posted on X.
Today, I met representatives of Ireland’s 🇮🇳 community.
I completely condemn the despicable acts of violence and racism that we have seen against some members of the 🇮🇳 community in recent weeks.I want to thank the Indian community for their very positive contribution to 🇮🇪. pic.twitter.com/XWBdTtgfDd
— Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) August 11, 2025
Harris praised the “positive contribution” of Indians to Ireland and vowed to work towards a safer environment for all.
Rising Attacks Prompt Embassy Advisory
Over the past month, racist attacks against Indians have increased. In July alone, at least three mob assaults on Indian nationals were reported. These incidents led the Indian Embassy in Dublin to issue an advisory and emergency helpline numbers for its citizens.
In addition to shocking the Indian community, the attacks have heightened the larger discussion about racism and integration in Ireland. More funding for law enforcement and stricter anti-hate laws and currently being demanded by lawmakers and civil society organisations.
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Analysts say the president’s public intervention sends a strong message that racism will not be tolerated, but real change will require sustained political will. For the Indian diaspora — one of the fastest-growing immigrant groups in Ireland — the hope is that these condemnations translate into concrete measures to ensure safety and inclusion.
The wave of attacks has not only strained community relations but also risked tarnishing Ireland’s image as an open and multicultural society.
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