HRW Report: Modi Made Islamophobic Remarks in 110 Campaign Speeches

A report by Human Rights Watch (HRW) alleges that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made Islamophobic remarks in over 100 of his 173 campaign speeches during the recent general election, The Independent reported yesterday. The organization claims these inflammatory statements targeted Muslims and other minorities, contributing to a climate of fear and violence against these communities.

Elaine Pearson, HRW’s Asia director, stated, “The hate speech rhetoric by the Indian leader has real world consequences for people who have had their homes demolished… and have actually been killed.” The report highlights Modi’s claims that opposition parties would threaten Hindu safety and redistribute wealth to Muslims, which HRW labeled as “blatantly false.”

Among the controversial speeches, Modi described Muslims as “infiltrators” and warned of a demographic shift that would make Hindus a minority. Despite widespread condemnation, Modi returned to power for a third term, albeit with a coalition government.

HRW emphasized the unprecedented nature of such rhetoric from a sitting prime minister, raising concerns about its implications for democracy and minority rights in India. The Modi administration has denied these allegations, asserting that its policies are inclusive.