EXPLORING THE REASON BEHIND UNREPORTED HATE CRIMES

Hate crimes in India are increasingly recognized as a critical social problem, including acts of violence or discrimination based on religion, caste, ethnicity and regional identity. These crimes are usually motivated by prejudice, often fueled by divisive political discourse, cultural prejudices and socio-economic inequalities. Religious minorities, especially Muslims, Dalits (historically marginalized communities) and immigrants, face increased risks of victimization. The incidence of hate crimes has increased over the past decade, often exacerbated by community tensions and changes in political frameworks, such as those affecting regional citizenship and residency laws. 

The legal framework for combating hate crimes In India remains fragmented, with the Indian Penal Code (IPC) providing limited scope for prosecuting hate crimes. While there are provisions to address communal violence and religious hostility, there is no specific legislation on hate crimes, making it difficult to consistently address the underlying prejudices that motivate these actions. The implementation of existing laws is often inconsistent, influenced by regional political climates and hampered by slow legal procedures.

Media coverage of hate crimes is also polarizing, with some media outlets highlighting these incidents while others downplay or ignore them, depending on political leanings. This variability in representation affects public awareness and response, often leading to a cycle of fear, anger and further division. Tackling hate crimes in India requires a multifaceted approach, including legal reforms, public education about tolerance and diversity, and institutional accountability to ensure the protection of vulnerable groups and uphold the country’s secular ideals.