An Indian restaurant in London became the victim of a bloody arson attack that left five people injured, two of whom are still in critical condition, with questions over the safety of the Indian community as well as fears of targeted hostility.
Details of the Attack
The attack took place on Friday evening at Indian Aroma in Gants Hill, Ilford- a restaurant that is well-known for its genuine Indian food and cultural atmosphere. CCTV footage showed masked attackers entering the restaurant, dousing it with a flammable liquid, and igniting it, leaving patrons and workers in disarray. Emergency service crews responded promptly, rescuing five and taking them for treatment of burns and smoke inhalation before transferring them to hospital. The police have detained a 15-year-old boy and a 54-year-old man on suspicion of attempted arson with intent to endanger life, but their motive is still under investigation.
Community Perspectives and Fears
The Indian diaspora in the UK, particularly in London, has been greatly shocked and alarmed by the incident. The assault has heightened fears of racial targeting of Indian restaurants and businesses, creating a climate of fear among restaurateurs and consumers alike. Local community leaders have demanded greater security and a more aggressive response from the police to confront the apparent increase of threats to Indian businesses. The feeling is not just prevalent among business owners, but also cultural and religious groups, who view such behaviour as possible hate crimes instead of a single criminal incident.
Impact on Indian Businesses
This attack follows on the heels of other reported cases of Indian restaurants in the UK, such as vandalism and business sanctions, which cumulatively indicate an uphill battle for Indian entrepreneurs. The perception of being singled out, be it through violence or administrative harassment, has made many within the community feel vulnerable. Restaurant owners have reported being “devastated” and “heartbroken” at both the material damage and the emotional impact, worried about further stigmatisation.
Calls for Action and Solidarity
In its wake, the Indian community has come together, forming support groups and calling for solidarity from other minority groups throughout London. Calls have gone out in public for witnesses to testify, not merely to aid in the investigation, but also to affirm communal strength in the face of adversity. There is a consensus that only through concerted action and inter-community engagement can such crimes be prevented and London’s multicultural nature safeguarded.
The latest attack on Indian Aroma is a poignant reminder of the vulnerability that many communities live with and of the necessity of renewed vigilance and collective action to protect London’s renowned diversity.
