In 2024, India experienced a significant rise in hate speech incidents against minorities, as documented by the India Hate Lab. The report indicates that these instances increased by 74%, with Muslims being the most affected group.
India's Hate Speech Surge: 74% Increase Targeting Minorities in 2024
India's Hate Speech Surge: 74% Increase Targeting Minorities in 2024
Report reveals alarming rise in instances of hate speech against minorities in India, particularly during national elections.
The report shows that in 2024, a staggering 1,165 instances of hate speech against minorities were recorded, marking a significant peak during the national elections. The Washington-based research group, India Hate Lab, released these findings on Monday, asserting that the majority of these incidents were directed at Muslims, constituting 98.5% of the recorded cases. Notably, the hate speech events were predominantly concentrated in states led by Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its larger coalition.
Despite the rising concerns, the BJP, including Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, has been named among the most frequent sources of hate speech. The ruling party has consistently dismissed claims of fostering Islamophobia, arguing that India's legal structures are robust enough to maintain societal peace and prevent violence. In response to ongoing criticisms, BJP spokesperson Jaiveer Shergill emphasized that the party does not require validation from entities they consider biased against India's image.
The report's findings indicate that the political climate surrounding the elections exacerbated the spread of hate speech, with May 2024 alone seeing 269 incidents, the highest monthly total for the year. While hate speech against Christians also occurred, it was reported to be at a significantly lower level compared to that targeted at Muslims.
Rights organizations have voiced concerns that the rise in discriminatory rhetoric has intensified since Modi's administration commenced in 2014. Allegations against the ruling party include using divisive language during election campaigns, with specific accusations aimed at Modi for rhetoric that allegedly alienated Muslims. The Election Commission had also mandated that the BJP retract a social media post perceived to demonize Muslims.
The India Hate Lab further noted that political rallies, religious processions, protests, and cultural events were hotspots for hate speech, with nearly 80% of incidents occurring in BJP-governed areas. The report highlights a worrying trend where political leaders and religious figures have started to openly promote violence against Muslims through calls to arms, economic boycotts of Muslim businesses, and even proposals to demolish or seize Muslim religious structures.
These findings underscore the urgent need for dialogue and action to counteract hate speech and foster a more inclusive society in India.
Despite the rising concerns, the BJP, including Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, has been named among the most frequent sources of hate speech. The ruling party has consistently dismissed claims of fostering Islamophobia, arguing that India's legal structures are robust enough to maintain societal peace and prevent violence. In response to ongoing criticisms, BJP spokesperson Jaiveer Shergill emphasized that the party does not require validation from entities they consider biased against India's image.
The report's findings indicate that the political climate surrounding the elections exacerbated the spread of hate speech, with May 2024 alone seeing 269 incidents, the highest monthly total for the year. While hate speech against Christians also occurred, it was reported to be at a significantly lower level compared to that targeted at Muslims.
Rights organizations have voiced concerns that the rise in discriminatory rhetoric has intensified since Modi's administration commenced in 2014. Allegations against the ruling party include using divisive language during election campaigns, with specific accusations aimed at Modi for rhetoric that allegedly alienated Muslims. The Election Commission had also mandated that the BJP retract a social media post perceived to demonize Muslims.
The India Hate Lab further noted that political rallies, religious processions, protests, and cultural events were hotspots for hate speech, with nearly 80% of incidents occurring in BJP-governed areas. The report highlights a worrying trend where political leaders and religious figures have started to openly promote violence against Muslims through calls to arms, economic boycotts of Muslim businesses, and even proposals to demolish or seize Muslim religious structures.
These findings underscore the urgent need for dialogue and action to counteract hate speech and foster a more inclusive society in India.
