Hate speech incidents in India saw a sharp rise in 2024, with a staggering 74.4% increase compared to the previous year, according to a new report by the India Hate Lab (IHL), a project of the Centre for the Study of Organized Hate (CSOH). The report documented 1,165 in-person hate speech events targeting religious minorities, particularly Muslims and Christians, across 20 states, two union territories, and Delhi.
The surge in hate speech was closely linked to the 2024 general elections, as well as state elections in Maharashtra and Jharkhand. The report alleged the increasing role of top BJP leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, in propagating divisive rhetoric. Compared to 2023, when state-level politicians were the main contributors, 2024 saw national figures playing a central role.
Three hate speech events per day were recorded on average.
98.5% of speeches targeted Muslims, with 9.9% also targeting Christians.
79.9% of incidents occurred in BJP/NDA-ruled states or union territories under central control.
Uttar Pradesh (242), Maharashtra (210), and Madhya Pradesh (98) reported the highest number of hate speech incidents.
BJP organised 340 hate speech events, a 580% increase from 2023.
685 (58.8%) hate speech events were linked to Sangh Parivar organisations, including the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal.
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