Story perspectives

Surge in Hate Speech Targets Christians, Muslims in India

1/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

Center for the Study of Organized Hate (CSOH) reports that hate speech and violence against Christians and Muslims in India surged in 2025, with 1,318 incidents, 88% in BJP-ruled states.
Anti-Muslim rhetoric rose 93% from 2023, while anti-Christian incidents rose 41%.
The CSOH report links the rise to conspiracy theories portraying minorities as threats.
Experts warn the trend, amplified by social media, could fuel more violence.

History

Historical Context

The 1984 anti-Sikh riots erupted after Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's assassination, resulting in over 3,000 deaths and highlighting India's ongoing communal violence. This event followed decades of tension, including the 1947 Partition and the 1992 Babri Masjid demolition, which have perpetuated cycles of violence against minorities. Today, rising hate speech against Christians and Muslims reflects this troubling historical pattern, threatening India's social cohesion.

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Story summary

Center for the Study of Organized Hate (CSOH) reports that hate speech and violence against Christians and Muslims in India surged in 2025, with 1,318 incidents, 88% in BJP-ruled states.
Anti-Muslim rhetoric rose 93% from 2023, while anti-Christian incidents rose 41%.
The CSOH report links the rise to conspiracy theories portraying minorities as threats.
Experts warn the trend, amplified by social media, could fuel more violence.

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