A recent report by the Association for the Protection of Civil Rights (APCR) shows a worrying increase in attacks, intimidation, and vandalism targeting religious minorities in India, particularly Christians and Muslims.
The Hate Crime Tracker documents 141 violent incidents and 102 cases of hate speech between June and August 2025. The highest numbers were reported in Uttar Pradesh, followed by Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra. The report also records 19 attacks on places of worship, including churches, mosques, and shrines.
One serious incident occurred on 28 September in Sukma, Chhattisgarh, when Sodi Deva, a Christian convert, was threatened with death by a mob led by the village head. Around 60 people took part in demolishing his home and destroying his property because of his faith.
The study notes that most attacks were carried out by organised groups, with Hindutva organisations such as the Bajrang Dal and VHP frequently involved. Some cases also reveal police complicity or bias. Victims were often forced to chant slogans, beaten, and publicly humiliated.
Political figures contributed to the atmosphere of intolerance. During election campaigns, inflammatory language targeting Muslims, including terms like “jihad” and “infiltration,” was widely used. Of the 102 recorded instances of hate speech, the report says 70 were delivered by BJP leaders, further normalising division and discrimination.
APCR warns that such trends threaten the safety of minority communities and risk weakening India’s constitutional commitment to pluralism and religious freedom.
Adapted from Asia News.
