Surjit Singh
A recent report by the Association for Protection of Civil Rights (APCR) has revealed a disturbing trend—hate speech is not limited to fringe groups but is increasingly propagated by members of the country’s intellectual and institutional elite, including politicians, judges, religious leaders, and journalists.
Widespread Involvement of Elected Officials and Public Figures
According to the APCR report, between June 2024 and June 2025, 345 hate speech incidents were documented nationwide. Political figures accounted for the majority, with as many as 257 instances attributed to elected leaders and affiliated organizations. Of these, 178 were linked to the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and 109 to right-wing groups such as the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal.
Top-Level Leaders Also Named in Report
The report explicitly mentions that Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave five speeches categorized as hate speech, three of which were during election rallies in Jharkhand. BJP chief ministers delivered 63 hate speeches over the past year—17 of them again during campaigns in Jharkhand. In total, MPs and MLAs were responsible for 71 such speeches.
Shocking Inclusion of Judges and Journalists
Even members of the judiciary and the press—traditionally seen as neutral guardians of democracy—have been implicated. The report notes two judges and seven journalists who delivered hate-laced commentary. One state governor is also cited. Religious leaders contributed to 42 hate speeches, while crowds and local individuals accounted for 10 and 2 respectively.
Detailed Breakdown of Hate Speech Cases
Politicians and affiliated organizations: 109
Prime Minister: 5
Judges: 2
Chief Ministers: 63
Elected representatives (MLAs/MPs): 71
Governors: 1
Religious leaders: 42
Crowds: 10
Journalists: 7
Local residents: 2
Groups Involved and Their Counts
BJP leaders dominated the hate speech numbers with 178 recorded incidents. Among affiliated groups: VHP members were responsible for 21, Bajrang Dal for 20, Shiv Sena for 4, RSS for 2, and members of Akhil Bharatiya Hindu Mahasabha (both factions) for 1 each. Other fringe groups such as Bhagwa Kranti Morcha, Dharma Raksha Sangh, Durga Vahini, Hindu Raksha Dal, and Kali Sena each contributed two instances.
Implications and Concern for Democracy
The findings highlight how those entrusted with upholding the constitution and preserving societal harmony are, in many cases, contributing to the spread of hate. The inclusion of judiciary figures and journalists intensifies concern, raising questions about the erosion of institutional neutrality and the impact on minority communities in India.
