One of Ireland's largest celebrations of Indian culture, 'India Day,' has been postponed due to a rise in "violent attacks" targeting the Indian community in recent months. The Ireland India Council, which has been organizing the event in collaboration with the Irish government since 2015, made the announcement. The celebrations were scheduled for the upcoming Sunday.

Prashant Shukla, co-chairman of the Ireland India Council, stated that the decision to postpone the event was difficult but necessary for the safety of the community. He mentioned that the event has been held in Ireland since 2015, and this is the first time it has been postponed.

Ireland's Deputy Prime Minister Simon Harris condemned the violence and racism against members of the Indian community. He expressed his deep concern about the incidents, particularly the young age of those involved in the racist activity.

The Indian Embassy in Dublin had previously issued a safety warning, advising Indian citizens to take precautions for their personal security and avoid deserted areas, especially at night, due to an increase in reported physical attacks. The Irish embassy in New Delhi has also condemned the attacks and is in contact with the police regarding investigations.

The rise in attacks has created a climate of fear within the Indian community in Ireland. What initially appeared as isolated incidents has evolved into a disturbing pattern of racially motivated attacks, online misinformation, and growing anxiety. Some Indian workers are considering leaving Ireland due to safety concerns. Recent incidents include stabbings and beatings, with some victims facing racial slurs. One reported incident involved a six-year-old girl of Indian origin being assaulted and subjected to racial slurs in southeast Ireland. In response to the attacks, a silent vigil was held outside the Department of Justice by Friends of India. A larger march, organized by Friends of India, Ireland, drew over 800 participants from various backgrounds, including Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, and Irish.

The Ireland India Council is advocating for assaults on members of the Indian community to be recognized and recorded as hate crimes to ensure appropriate handling. They also believe there is an organized social media campaign against the Indian community in Ireland, which has contributed to the rise in violent attacks since January. The council aims to counter negative narratives suggesting that Indians have "taken over the state" and caused housing problems.

Ireland's Ambassador to India, Kevin Kelly, affirmed that the Indian community is an integral part of Irish society and that the attacks go against Ireland's values. Despite these assurances, anxiety remains high within the Indian community.