Hate speech in India, despite being prohibited under the Indian Civil Code, is becoming an increasingly widespread issue. It is frequently used by political parties to push their agendas, often targeting minorities based on caste, religion, or sexual orientation. A recent report by the India Hate Lab (IHL), a Washington-based research organisation, highlights a troubling rise in such incidents, particularly around the 2024 national elections.
Despite being prohibited and penalised under the Indian Civil Code, hate speech in India is increasingly becoming a prevalent issue. It is often wielded by political parties to advance their agendas and is widely observed on social media platforms, where minorities are targeted, whether based on caste, religion, or against the LGBTQ+ community.
The atmosphere has grown highly politicised, with hate being incited against these groups, often a reminder of the British divide-and-rule strategy that, seemingly, has not been left behind.