Report Finds 74% Rise in Hate Speech Against Muslims and Christians in India

Report Finds 74% Rise in Hate Speech Against Muslims and Christians in India
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Hate speech targeting Muslims and Christians in India increased by 74% in 2024, driven largely by election-related rhetoric and regional unrest, AnewsZ reported. A study by the Washington-based India Hate Lab documented 1,165 verified offline hate speech incidents this year, up from 668 in 2023. These incidents took place at political rallies, election gatherings, religious processions, protests, and other public events.

Researchers attributed the rise to India’s general election, several state polls, and demonstrations responding to political turmoil in neighboring Bangladesh. Many incidents echoed long-standing Hindu nationalist narratives portraying religious minorities as outsiders or security threats. The report documented a notable spike in August, when misinformation about violence in Bangladesh helped fuel anti-Muslim sentiment in India.

According to the study, hate speech has become increasingly severe, including explicit calls for violence, economic boycotts, and attacks on property and places of worship. Social media significantly amplified the problem, with nearly 1,000 videos shared online, particularly on Facebook and YouTube. The report concludes that hate speech has become entrenched in India’s political landscape, warning of a more extreme phase of majoritarian nationalism in 2024.