Islamabad, A new report from the United Kingdom Indian Muslim Council (UK-IMC) details a significant increase in hate speech incidents by leaders of India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), particularly targeting minorities. This trend has reportedly worsened during the BJP’s second term in office, raising concerns about the impact on India’s social harmony and democratic values.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the report titled “Portfolios of Hate” documents 70 instances of hate speech recorded by Indian media, highlighting the role of BJP candidates in the current general elections. These incidents demonstrate a disturbing rise in inflammatory rhetoric aimed primarily at Muslim communities, with significant contributions from high-ranking officials, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Mohammed Owaise, Director of UK-IMC, emphasized the troubling involvement of elected representatives in perpetuating hate speech and the risks it poses to India’s democratic fabric and societal peace. The report specifically notes statements made by prominent BJP figures, including Modi, who is cited for justifying past anti-Muslim violence and employing divisive language in his recent campaign speeches.
Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP President JP Nadda are also mentioned for their derogatory remarks about immigrants and policy stances that potentially discriminate against minorities. The documentation of these speeches and policies points to a broader, institutionalized pattern of bigotry that the report warns could lead to increased communal tension and violence.
Dr. Amrit Wilson, from the South Asia Solidarity Group, stressed the importance of such reports, noting they provide essential evidence of a shift toward a Hindu nationalist agenda in India, characterized by rhetoric and actions that target and dehumanize Muslim citizens.
The revelations in the UK-IMC report coincide with a rise in hate crimes against minorities, underscoring the gravity of the situation as India continues to grapple with its internal divisions.