Surge in Anti-Minority Hate Speech in India, Muslims Hit Most

A recent report by the India Hate Lab reveals a staggering 74% increase in anti-minority hate speech in India during 2024, with a total of 1,165 documented incidents compared to 668 in the previous year, Reuters reported.

The rise in hate speech coincided with the national elections, held from April 19 to June 1, which the group noted significantly influenced the frequency of such incidents. According to the report, Muslims were targeted the most, with 98.5% of recorded instances of hate speech directed against them.

It highlights that a third of these incidents occurred during the election campaign period, with May marking a peak in hate speech activity. The Indian government has denied allegations of discrimination against minorities, asserting that its policies benefit all citizens.

Rights advocates point to a 2019 citizenship law deemed “fundamentally discriminatory” by the U.N., as well as anti-conversion legislation that challenges the right to freedom of belief. They also note the revocation of Kashmir’s special status, demolition of properties owned by Muslims, and a ban on hijabs in schools in Karnataka, which they argue reflect systemic discrimination.

The findings come ahead of a scheduled meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Modi, amid ongoing scrutiny of minority rights in India.