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2024: CJP’s battle against communal rallies before and after they unfold

CJP Team

Throughout 2024, Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP) tirelessly raised alarms over provocative speeches, the spreading of divisive narratives, and communal incitement, sending multiple complaints to law enforcement authorities across various states. These complaints, both pre-emptive and post-incident, served as crucial interventions in curbing hate speech, ensuring accountability, and demanding action from the authorities.

The act of documenting and reporting hate speech and communal incitement is essential in a legal and social landscape where such offences often go unchecked. Pre-emptive complaints serve as warnings to authorities, urging them to take timely action before a situation escalates into violence. These complaints are vital in ensuring that law enforcement agencies are held responsible for maintaining peace and preventing harm. Meanwhile, post-incident complaints play a key role in pushing for accountability, demanding legal proceedings against offenders, and ensuring that hate speech does not become normalised through state inaction.

CJP is dedicated to finding and bringing to light instances of Hate Speech, so that the bigots propagating these venomous ideas can be unmasked and brought to justice. To learn more about our campaign against hate speech, please become a member. To support our initiatives, please donate now!

By consistently flagging instances of communal hate and incitement, CJP has not only pressured authorities to act but also created a record of the state’s response—or lack thereof. This documentation is critical in exposing patterns of impunity, strengthening legal discourse around hate speech, and providing material for future advocacy and legal challenges. Below is a chronological account of certain significant complaints, sent both pre-event and post-event, underscoring the importance of such interventions.

Post-event complaints

In 2024, CJP consistently documented and reported instances of provocative and inciting speech across India, filing numerous post-event complaints to hold perpetrators accountable. Many of these complaints were lodged against political figures, religious leaders, and right-wing influencers who used public platforms to incite hatred, spread conspiracy theories, and call for economic or social boycotts of minority communities. A recurring pattern in these complaints was the deliberate targeting of Muslims through fabricated narratives like ‘Love Jihad’, ‘Land Jihad’, and ‘Ghazwa-e-Hind’, alongside direct calls for violence or segregation. Events organised by groups such as the Sakal Hindu Samaj and Vishwa Hindu Parishad frequently featured such speeches, prompting CJP to take legal action under IPC Sections 153A and 505, as well as the provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.

Several high-profile individuals, including BJP MLAs T. Raja Singh and Nitesh Rane, and social media influencer Kajal Hindustani, were the subjects of multiple complaints. Their speeches often invoked historical distortions, demonised religious minorities, and encouraged vigilantism, with Singh even violating prior court orders restricting his hate speech. CJP’s interventions aimed not only to seek legal consequences for the speakers but also to highlight the growing impunity with which hate speech was being normalised, particularly in the lead-up to the elections. By documenting these incidents and calling for swift legal action, CJP sought to challenge the systemic failure to curb inflammatory rhetoric and reinforce the urgent need for stronger enforcement of hate speech laws.

February

  1. On February 23, 2024, CJP filed a complaint regarding a provocative speech delivered by Kajal Hindustani (aka Kajal Shingala) at a gathering in Jalgaon, Maharashtra, in January 2024. In her speech, Hindustani promoted the social and economic boycott of the Muslim community, urging Hindus to only buy from and employ fellow Hindus. She also made alarming statements about Muslims in the community, encouraging heightened vigilance and expressing concerns about alleged insults to Hindu gods. CJP called for strict action under IPC Sections 153A and 505, citing the growing atmosphere of communal tension in Maharashtra and the potential risks of such rhetoric, especially with the looming elections.Issues with the speech: Encouraging social and economic boycott of Muslims
  2. On February 23, 2024, CJP filed a complaint regarding a hate-filled speech delivered by Kajal Hindustani at a Sakal Hindu Samaj event in Kamthi, Nagpur, on February 2, 2024. In her speech, Hindustani spread conspiracy theories about ‘Love Jihad’, ‘Ghazwa-E-Hind’, and alleged illegal land takeovers by Muslims, urging Hindus to socially boycott Muslims. She also promoted divisive rhetoric, claiming that Hindus would only be safe once they united and fought back against Muslims. Hindustani has a history of delivering inflammatory speeches targeting Muslims, and CJP called for strict legal action under IPC Sections 153A and 505 to prevent the spread of such hate speech, which threatens communal harmony. A video of the speech was shared on social media on February 5, 2024, drawing attention to her dangerous statements. Issues with the speech: Encouraging social and economic boycott of Muslims, promoting conspiracy theories and violence
  3. On February 23, 2024, CJP lodged a complaint regarding a provocative hate speech delivered by Kajal Hindustani at an event in Navapur, Nandurbar, on February 6, 2024. Hindustani, known for her history of delivering inflammatory remarks, spread conspiracy theories about ‘Love Jihad’, ‘Land Jihad’, forced conversions, and ‘Ghazwa-e-Hind’, while encouraging the social and economic boycott of Muslims. She also promoted dangerous rhetoric, including urging Hindus to only buy from and employ other Hindus, and to teach their children self-defence in the face of alleged threats from Muslims. Hindustani’s speech, which advocates for divisive, violence-justifying actions, was recorded and shared widely, prompting CJP to call for stringent action under IPC Sections 153A and 505, to prevent the further spread of hate speech and preserve communal harmony. Issues with the speech: Encouraging social and economic boycott of Muslims, promoting conspiracy theories and violence.
  4. On February 28, 2024, CJP filed a complaint regarding a rally held on February 25, 2024, in Mira Road, Thane, where BJP MLA T. Raja Singh was the chief speaker. Despite having given a court-ordered undertaking to refrain from hate speech, Singh used inflammatory language and targeted the Muslim community during his 40-minute speech at the rally, which commemorated Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s birth anniversary. Singh distorted historical facts, particularly around Shivaji Maharaj and his son Sambhaji Maharaj, to propagate hate against Muslims, making references to the demolition of temples and construction of mosques. He also incited violence by calling for similar acts in Mathura and Kashi, while further propagating divisive topics like Love Jihad, forced conversions, and cow slaughter. The speech violated the court’s order, which mandated video recording of the event, and occurred in an area already marked by communal tension. CJP has called for stringent legal action against the hate speaker to prevent further harm to communal harmony. Issues with the speech: Spreading divisive ideologies, hate-mongering against Muslims, promoting violence, destruction of property and encouraging otherisation of Muslims. 

April

  1. On April 2, 2024, CJP filed a complaint against Nitesh Rane, an MLA from Kankavli, for delivering a provocative and hate-driven speech in Dongri, Thane, on February 27, 2024. In his speech, Rane propagated a false conspiracy theory about ‘Land Jihad’, threatened to forcibly evict local residents, and incited violence against the Muslim community, referring to them as “illegal Bangladeshis” and even suggesting burning them in a generator. Rane also threatened the police, warning them not to interfere with his actions, and declared his readiness to take the law into his own hands. This speech follows a pattern of previous inflammatory rhetoric by Rane, including inciting violence against Muslims and promoting the creation of a Hindu Rashtra. CJP has called for stringent action to prevent the escalation of communal tensions and ensure peace and harmony in the region. Issues with the speech: Spreading divisive ideologies, hate-mongering against Muslims, promoting violence, destruction of property, encouraging otherisation of Muslims, undermining law and order.
  2. On April 2, 2024, CJP filed a complaint against Kajal Singhala, also known as Kajal Hindustani, for delivering a provocative hate speech in Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, on March 5, 2024, during a rally organised by Sakal Hindu Samaj. In her speech, Hindustani spread false conspiracy theories about ‘Love Jihad’, ‘Land Jihad’, and religious conversions, accusing Muslims of attempting to turn India into an Islamic nation through ‘Ghazwa-e-Hind’. She also referred to Muslim boys as “Jihadi” and falsely claimed they were brainwashing Hindu girls into conversion. Hindustani’s inflammatory remarks and calls for societal division have a history of disturbing communal harmony, and CJP urges the authorities to take immediate action to prevent further hate-driven speech and violence. Issues with the speech: Spreading divisive ideologies, hate-mongering against Muslims, promoting conspiracy theories, encouraging communal hostility, otherisation of Muslims, inciting fear and mistrust.
  3. On April 2, 2024, CJP filed a complaint against BJP MLA T. Raja Singh for delivering a provocative hate speech at a Hindu Janjagruti Samiti event in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, on January 30, 2024. In his speech, Singh incited violence against Muslims, made derogatory remarks, and urged the crowd to turn India into a Hindu Rashtra. He also threatened to seize religious places of worship in Mathura and Kashi and boasted about the demolition of Babri Masjid. Furthermore, Singh spread false narratives such as ‘Love Jihad’ and called for violent retaliation against Muslim youth. Known for his history of inflammatory rhetoric and over 40 criminal cases, including those invoking IPC Section 153(A), Singh has a long record of disturbing communal harmony. CJP urges the authorities to take strict action to prevent further hate-driven discourse and safeguard national peace. Issues with the speech: Spreading divisive ideologies, hate-mongering against Muslims, inciting violence, promoting religious supremacy, threatening places of worship, glorifying past acts of communal violence, encouraging vigilantism.
  4. On April 2, 2024, CJP filed a complaint against BJP MLA T. Raja Singh for delivering a provocative hate speech at an event in Saswad, Pune, on January 31, 2024. In his speech, Singh incited violence against Muslims by promoting fake narratives like ‘Love Jihad’ and ‘Hindu Rashtra’, encouraged arms training, and spread hate between Hindu and Muslim communities. He also threatened to seize religious places of worship in Mathura and Kashi and boasted about the demolition of the Babri Masjid. Singh made inflammatory comments on the supposed threat posed by Muslims, falsely accusing them of illegal activities and calling for extreme measures to protect Hindu identity. His rhetoric glorified violence and was aimed at further polarising the communities. CJP has called for immediate investigation and appropriate legal action to curb the spread of such inflammatory rhetoric. Issues with the speech: Spreading divisive ideologies, hate-mongering against Muslims, inciting violence, promoting religious supremacy, encouraging arms training, threatening places of worship, glorifying past acts of communal violence, fostering communal polarisation.
  5. On April 8, 2024, CJP filed a complaint regarding the provocative speech delivered by BJP MLA Nitesh Rane at an event organised by Sakal Hindu Samaj in Ghatkopar, Mumbai, on March 10, 2024. During his speech, Rane openly urged the boycott of Muslim vendors and promised impunity to those who commit violence against them. He used derogatory terms such as “Jihadis” to refer to the entire Muslim community and made xenophobic remarks about Rohingyas, creating unwarranted fear. Rane, an MLA from Kankavli in Maharashtra, has a history of delivering inflammatory speeches that promote communal discord, including previous remarks about demolishing mosques and advocating for a Hindu Rashtra. This speech, like others before it, further exacerbates communal tensions and undermines peace and harmony. CJP has called on the authorities to take immediate action against Rane to prevent further hate-driven rhetoric from destabilising communal relations in Mumbai and beyond. Issues with the speech: Spreading divisive ideologies, hate-mongering against Muslims, promoting economic boycott, inciting violence, using derogatory and xenophobic language, fostering communal discord, advocating religious supremacy.
  6. On April 8, 2024, CJP filed a complaint regarding the provocative and hate-driven speech delivered by BJP MLA Nitesh Rane at an event organised by Sakal Hindu Samaj in Nimba Village, Balapur Taluka, Akola, on February 18, 2024. In his speech, Rane propagated conspiracy theories, claiming that Muslims were reducing the Hindu population and attempting to establish an Islamic nation in India, which he used to stoke fear and division. He openly incited the crowd to boycott Muslim vendors and promoted their social ostracisation, actions that are not only unconstitutional but also dangerous for communal harmony. Rane’s rhetoric included derogatory references to historical figures and communities, and he threatened violence against those who opposed his views, including Asaduddin Owaisi and supporters of the Babri Masjid. As an MLA with a history of inflammatory statements, this speech is just another in a series of hate speeches aimed at disrupting peace and promoting violence. CJP has called for immediate action against Rane to prevent further escalation of such harmful rhetoric. Issues with the speech: Spreading divisive ideologies, hate-mongering against Muslims, promoting conspiracy theories, inciting fear and communal division, advocating economic boycott, encouraging social ostracisation, using derogatory and inflammatory language, threatening violence.
  7. On April 8, 2024, CJP filed a complaint against BJP member and Supreme Court advocate Ashwini Upadhyay, a controversial figure known for his connections to far-right forces, regarding his communal speech delivered in Mahabaleshwar, Satara on January 26, 2024. In his speech, Upadhyay attacked Islamic Madrasas, questioning their role in promoting national values and advocating for the removal of minority status for Muslims, whom he accused of influencing electoral outcomes due to their population size. This dangerous rhetoric fuels communal division by spreading misinformation and stoking fear. Upadhyay, who has previously made inflammatory remarks, including a 2021 event at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, has a troubling history of making hate speeches that disturb communal harmony. CJP has urged the authorities to take immediate action to prevent further harm to the peace and unity of the country, emphasising the urgency given the repeated involvement of the Supreme Court in similar cases. Issues with the speech: Spreading divisive ideologies, hate-mongering against Muslims, attacking religious institutions, promoting misinformation, inciting communal division, undermining minority rights, fostering fear and mistrust, advocating for discriminatory policies.

July

  1. On July 11, 2024, CJP filed a complaint with the Maharashtra Police regarding a provocative hate speech delivered by social media influencer Kajal Hindustani in Mudkhed, Nanded, on May 4, 2024. During her speech, Hindustani propagated dangerous conspiracy theories about Love Jihad, Land Jihad, and religious conversions, accusing Muslim citizens of attempting to convert Hindu girls and claiming Muslims were working towards establishing an Islamic nation in India. She also used derogatory terms like “Jihadi” to target Muslim men and urged the public to boycott Muslim businesses. CJP highlighted Hindustani’s history of hate speech, including previous incidents across India, and emphasized her role in inciting communal violence. CJP urged the authorities to take action under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and follow directives issued by the Supreme Court and Maharashtra’s DGP for handling hate speech, which mandate swift and stringent measures against such provocations. Issues with the speech: Spreading divisive ideologies, hate-mongering against Muslims, promoting conspiracy theories, inciting communal division, using derogatory language, advocating economic boycott, inciting violence, fostering communal fear and mistrust.
  2. On July 12, 2024, CJP filed a complaint against Gautam Khattar for his hate speech delivered at the National Yuva Conclave-2024 in Kolkata between April 5-7, 2024. Khattar propagated false conspiracy theories about religious conversions, accused Muslims and Christians of proselytisation, and promoted violence by urging Hindus to take up arms. He further claimed that Muslims were working towards establishing an Islamic State in India, and that the Quran encourages violence against non-Muslims. CJP’s complaint was directed to the Commissioner of Bidhannagar City Police and the District Magistrate of North 24 Parganas, urging immediate legal action against Khattar for inciting communal hatred. Issues with the speech: Spreading divisive ideologies, hate-mongering against Muslims and Christians, promoting conspiracy theories, inciting violence, encouraging the use of arms, fostering fear and mistrust, inciting communal hatred, misinterpreting religious texts to justify violence.
  3. On July 12, 2024, CJP filed a complaint against preacher Swami Sachidanand for delivering a hate speech in Bainsroli, Mainpuri, Uttar Pradesh, on June 3, 2024. In his speech, Swami propagated false conspiracy theories about Muslims and Christians, making derogatory and inflammatory remarks about Prophet Mohammad and Jesus Christ. He attempted to spread fear and hatred by falsely depicting Muslims and Christians as threats to societal harmony. CJP cited the provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and urged the authorities to prosecute Swami under relevant sections for promoting religious enmity and disturbing public peace. The complaint also highlighted Swami’s history of delivering communal speeches, including previous incidents in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, reinforcing the need for immediate legal action to prevent further incitement of violence. Issues with the speech: Spreading divisive ideologies, hate-mongering against Muslims and Christians, promoting conspiracy theories, making derogatory and inflammatory remarks about religious figures, inciting fear and hatred, fostering religious enmity, disturbing public peace, encouraging violence.
  4. On July 16, 2024, CJP filed a complaint against Swami Sachidanand for his ongoing pattern of hate speech targeting Muslim citizens. The complaint, submitted to the Superintendent of Police and District Magistrate of Jodhpur, highlighted Swami’s speech on June 8, 2024, in which he propagated the false Ghazwa-e-Hind conspiracy theory and incited violence by urging people to carry arms. His speech falsely accused Muslims of being responsible for population growth, blamed them for land encroachment, and made derogatory remarks about Madrassas and Mosques. This was not an isolated incident; CJP pointed to his previous hate speeches, including those in 2019, May 2024 in Bharatpur, and June 2024 in Mainpuri, Uttar Pradesh, where he spread similar divisive narratives about Muslims and Christians. The complaint also emphasised that such speeches violated multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and called for action under the guidelines set by the Supreme Court in cases of hate speech. Issues with the speech: Spreading divisive ideologies, hate-mongering against Muslims, promoting false conspiracy theories, inciting violence, encouraging the carrying of arms, making derogatory remarks about religious institutions, spreading misinformation, fostering fear and mistrust, disturbing public peace, violating legal provisions for communal harmony.
  5. On July 16, 2024, CJP filed a complaint against a leader of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) for delivering a hate speech in Vapi, Valsad, Gujarat, on May 26, 2024. The speech propagated fake conspiracy theories about “love jihad,” promoted enmity between Muslims and Hindus, and glorified violence by referencing past communal incidents like the 1992 Babri Masjid demolition and the 2002 Gujarat riots. The speaker also advocated the boycott of Muslim businesses and used derogatory language against women. CJP sent the complaint to the Superintendent of Police and District Magistrate of Valsad, urging them to take swift action in accordance with hate speech laws. Issues with the speech: Spreading divisive ideologies, hate-mongering against Muslims, promoting conspiracy theories, inciting communal enmity, glorifying past violence, advocating economic boycott, using derogatory language against women, promoting hatred and fear, disturbing social harmony.
  6. The said complaint, filed on July 16, 2024, was against an Antarrashtriya Hindu Parishad speaker for a hate-filled speech delivered on June 4, 2024, in Purnia, Bihar. The speaker incited violence and used derogatory language against Muslims, referring to them as “circumcised” and threatening to mutilate them. The speech not only promoted violence but also sought to create divisions between religious communities. CJP directed the complaint to the Superintendent of Police and District Magistrate of Purnia, calling for immediate legal action against the speaker under relevant provisions of hate speech laws. Issues with the speech: Spreading divisive ideologies, hate-mongering against Muslims, promoting violence, using derogatory language, inciting harm and mutilation, fostering religious divisions, disturbing public peace, encouraging communal hostility.
  7. On July 16, 2024, CJP filed a complaint against BJP MLA Raja Singh for his hate speech delivered at a Sakal Hindu Samaj event in Solapur, Maharashtra, on May 3, 2024. In his speech, Singh demonised the Muslim community, distorting history and inciting violence by threatening Muslims with retaliation from Prime Minister Modi. He further labelled Kerala as a “terrorist factory” and made divisive statements that fostered mistrust and hatred. CJP urged the authorities to take immediate action against Singh for his provocative remarks that violate hate speech laws under the Indian Penal Code and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. Issues with the speech: Spreading divisive ideologies, hate-mongering against Muslims, distorting history, inciting violence, threatening retaliation, fostering communal mistrust and hatred, making derogatory statements, violating hate speech laws.
  8. Another complaint was filed by CJP on July 16, 2024, regarding a hate speech delivered by BJP MLA Raja Singh at a Sakal Hindu Samaj event in Nashik, Maharashtra, on May 14, 2024. Singh’s speech propagated fake narratives about “Jihad,” incited violence, and created enmity between the Hindu and Muslim communities. He made inflammatory remarks about the future of India as a Hindu nation and warned of a religious war, citing fictitious terrorist groups. CJP requested the authorities to take cognizance of the speech, register a case against Singh, and take appropriate legal action to ensure communal harmony. Issues with the speech: Spreading divisive ideologies, hate-mongering against Muslims, promoting false narratives, inciting violence, fostering communal enmity, making inflammatory remarks, encouraging religious war, spreading fear of fictitious threats, disturbing communal harmony.
  9. On July 16, 2024, CJP filed a separate complaint against BJP MLA Raja Singh for his inflammatory speech at a Sakal Hindu Samaj event in Sangli, Maharashtra, on May 26, 2024. In his speech, Singh incited violence against Muslims, encouraged the use of firearms, and peddled false narratives about “Love-Jihad” and religious conversions. He also spread hatred by making derogatory remarks about Muslims, urging the crowd to mistrust them regardless of the benefits they received. CJP called for immediate legal action, including the arrest of Singh and the organisers, for violating hate speech laws and contributing to communal tension. Issues with the speech: Spreading divisive ideologies, hate-mongering against Muslims, inciting violence, encouraging the use of firearms, promoting false narratives, fostering mistrust, making derogatory remarks, inciting communal tension, violating hate speech laws.
  10. CJP filed a complaint on July 23, 2024, against a member of Durga Vahini (VHP’s women’s wing) for delivering a hate speech in Ajmer, Rajasthan, on June 7, 2024. The speech propagated the baseless love jihad conspiracy theory, intending to disrupt communal harmony and create tensions between religious communities. CJP urged the authorities in Ajmer and Jodhpur to take immediate action, citing the Supreme Court’s directive from the Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay v. Union of India case, which mandates suo-motu registration of FIRs in cases of hate speech. The complaint underscored that the speech violated provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, including sections relating to promoting enmity, public mischief, and intentional insult. CJP emphasized the need for prompt legal action to uphold social peace and prevent further communal harm, invoking judicial precedents like Shaheen Abdullah vs. Union of India to strengthen their case. Issues with the speech: Spreading divisive ideologies, promoting false conspiracy theories, inciting communal tension, fostering mistrust between religious communities, violating legal provisions, undermining social harmony, encouraging public mischief and enmity.
  11. On July 23, 2024, CJP filed another complaint against a speaker associated with the Antarashtriya Hindu Parishad (AHP) and Rastriya Bajrang Dal in Kairana, Shamli, Uttar Pradesh. The speaker’s hate speech, delivered on June 6, 2024, was aimed at inciting religious enmity by targeting Muslims and portraying them as enemies of the state. He propagated harmful stereotypes and falsely accused Muslims of delaying the country’s economic prosperity. CJP called for strict action against the speaker, citing the circular issued by the Uttar Pradesh DGP that mandates police to take suo moto action in cases of hate speech. CJP urged the authorities to register an FIR as per the Supreme Court’s orders and ensure that the speaker is held accountable for his inciteful and communal rhetoric. Issues with the speech: Spreading divisive ideologies, hate-mongering against Muslims, promoting harmful stereotypes, inciting religious enmity, falsely accusing a community of hindering economic progress, fostering communal division, violating legal provisions, inciting hostility and mistrust.

Preventive complaints

CJP has consistently taken proactive steps to combat the rising tide of hate speech and communal mobilisation in India. As part of its ongoing efforts, CJP has filed numerous preventive complaints with law enforcement authorities across various states, urging them to take pre-emptive action against rallies and events that have a high potential for inciting communal disharmony. These complaints, submitted before the scheduled events, highlight the organisers’ history of inflammatory rhetoric and call upon the police to adhere to Supreme Court directives mandating the monitoring, recording, and, where necessary, legal action against hate speech. By doing so, CJP aims to ensure that law enforcement agencies fulfil their constitutional duty to uphold social order, communal harmony and prevent the spread of divisive propaganda.

These preventive interventions are particularly crucial given the backdrop of increasing communal tensions and the misuse of public platforms to spread hate. Many of these rallies, often organised under the garb of religious or socio-political gatherings, have featured speakers with a documented history of promoting violence and discrimination. In its complaints, CJP has not only flagged the potential risks but has also urged the authorities to implement Supreme Court-mandated safeguards, such as videotaping events and taking suo moto action against violators. Through these efforts, CJP continues to push for greater accountability and stronger enforcement of laws designed to curb hate speech, ensuring that communal harmony is maintained, especially in politically charged environments.

February

  1. On February 20, CJP raised concerns with the Commissioner of Police, Mira Bhayandar regarding the upcoming rally planned by BJP MLA T. Raja Singh in Mira Road on February 25, 2024. The rally, organised by the Hindu Jan Aakrosh Morcha, was to commemorate Shivaji Maharaj’s birthday, which had been postponed from February 19 due to the denial of police permission. CJP highlighted the history of violence linked to the Hindu Jan Aakrosh Morcha and Singh’s inflammatory rhetoric, warning that the rally could potentially incite further communal unrest in a region already scarred by violence in January. The organisation expressed concern that the rally, held under the banner of a revered leader like Shivaji Maharaj, could be hijacked by Hindutva groups to promote divisive politics and fuel hate-filled speeches, threatening the social harmony of Maharashtra.
  2. BJP MLA T. Raja Singh was scheduled to hold a rally in Mira Road, Thane on February 25, 2024, at 5 pm. Initially denied police permission due to his involvement in numerous hate speech cases across Maharashtra and other states, the rally has now been conditionally approved by the Bombay High Court. The approval followed a criminal writ petition filed by Naresh Ramu Nile, an organiser from Hindu Task Force and Sakal Hindu Samaj, challenging the police’s denial. During the February 23 hearing, the division bench, comprising Justices R.P. Mohite Dere and Manusha Ajay Deshpande, granted conditional approval, mandating that no hate speeches be delivered and that the event be videotaped by the police. This condition aligns with Supreme Court directives in the Shaheen Abdullah v. Union of India case, requiring the police to monitor such events, take suo-moto action against hate speech, and file FIRs where necessary. On February 24, 2024, CJP filed a follow-up complaint with the Maharashtra police, urging them to ensure that no hate speeches take place and that the rally is fully videotaped as required by the High Court. The organisation further called for action against Singh if he violated any of the court-imposed conditions.

August

  1. On August 9, 2024, a delegation from CJP, led by Teesta Setalvad and Dolphy D’Souza, met with Sudhakar Shirsath, Senior Police Inspector of Mahim Police Station, to request preventive measures against the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS) rally scheduled for August 10, 2024, in Mumbai. The delegation submitted a memorandum urging the police to deny permission for the rally and to take measures to prevent potential hate speeches, as directed by Constitutional Courts. The police informed the delegation that the rally had already been denied permission to maintain communal harmony. The memorandum noted the HJS’s involvement in organizing events that have raised concerns about fostering tensions and promoting divisive sentiments. It cautioned that such rallies could potentially lead to unrest, particularly with state elections approaching. The delegation also pointed out that HJS has hosted individuals associated with controversial statements, and allowing such events could have implications for public order.
  2. On August 13, 2024, CJP filed a complaint with Sangli Police against the “Jan Aakrosh Morcha” organised by Shakti-Bhimshakti and Sakal Hindu Dalit Samaj in Palus, Sangli. The event, scheduled to feature BJP MLA Nitesh Rane, MP Amar Sable, and Harshatai Thakur as keynote speakers, was flagged by CJP due to the history of hate speech associated with these individuals. CJP stressed that Nitesh Rane, in particular, had been involved in multiple instances of promoting communal violence and that the event could potentially further destabilise public order in the lead-up to the Maharashtra Assembly elections.
  3. On August 17, 2024, CJP filed a preventive action complaint with the Hyderabad Police against the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti’s (HJS) proposed event, the “Hindu Rashtra Jagruti Andolan,” scheduled to take place at Dharna Chowk, Indira Park in Hyderabad. CJP urged the police to take immediate action, expressing concerns that the event would likely feature hate-filled and provocative speeches, as well as calls for violence, based on the organization’s past history and the communal principles they propagate. CJP referenced recent Supreme Court orders on preventive measures and emphasized the threat posed by HJS’s divisive activities across the country, particularly in Maharashtra, where similar events have led to rising tensions. In its complaint, CJP noted that HJS has been promoting anti-Muslim narratives, including their “Love Jihad” campaign, which falsely portrays interfaith marriages as part of a Muslim conspiracy to convert Hindus. The organization also advocates for economic boycotts of Muslims and engages in communal rhetoric on topics such as cow slaughter and religious conversions.
  4. On August 17, 2024, CJP filed a complaint with the Ratnagiri police seeking preventive action against the “Muknidarshan” event organised by the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS) at Athawada Bazar, Ratnagiri, scheduled for August 17. CJP expressed concern that such events, especially after the recent violent incidents in Nashik when a similar rally organised by Sakal Hindu Samaj (SHS) had resulted in clashes and police intervention, pose a significant risk to communal harmony. CJP expressed concerns that these rallies frequently provide a platform for individuals known for their provocative speeches. The organisation cautioned that allowing the event to take place without adequate preventive measures could heighten tensions and potentially lead to violence. CJP called on the authorities to take action in order to maintain peace and uphold communal harmony.
  5. On August 20, CJP filed a complaint with the Rahata, Ahmednagar Police urging preventive action against the “Hindu Jan Aakrosh Morcha” rally organised by the Sakal Hindu Samaj (SHS), set to take place at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Memorial in Rahata, Ahmednagar on August 21, 2024. CJP expressed concerns about the involvement of Suresh Chavhanke, a prominent figure known for making inflammatory and hate-driven statements, and his role as the editor-in-chief of Sudarshan News. The organisation warned that the event, which had been promoted through provocative posters and aired content, was at risk of becoming a platform for further hate speech, violence, and communal tensions, particularly considering the history of the organisation and the individuals associated with it. CJP urged the authorities to intervene and prevent the event to protect public peace and prevent the further marginalisation of minority communities.
  6. On August 26, 2024, CJP filed a complaint with the Superintendent of Police and District Collector of Ahmednagar, urging preventive action against the scheduled “Hindu Janakrosh Morcha” organised by the right-wing group Sakal Hindu Dalit Samaj in Dhotre Village, Kopargaon. CJP raised concerns about the participation of well-known controversial speakers, including Harshatai Thakur, Sangram Bapu Bhandare, Sagar Beg, and Yogesh Suryavanshi, who have been associated with past events that promoted divisive and inflammatory rhetoric. Given the organisation’s history and the provocative nature of the event, CJP warned that allowing it to go ahead could heighten communal tensions and potentially lead to violence. The organisation urged the authorities to take preventive measures to avoid such outcomes.
  7. On August 27, 2024, CJP approached the Superintendent of Police and District Magistrate of Sangli, seeking preventive action against the proposed rally organised by Sakal Hindu Samaj in Uran-Islampur, Sangli, scheduled for August 29, 2024. The rally, scheduled to take place from Shivaji Chowk to Yallama Chowk, was promoted by the participation of prominent problematic speakers, including BJP MLA Nitesh Rane and Harshatai Thakur, both of whom have a history of making provocative statements that contribute to communal discord. CJP expressed concern that the event could turn into a platform for further hate speech and violence, urging the authorities to take pre-emptive measures to maintain peace and prevent harm to the community.
  8. On August 28, 2024, CJP filed a complaint with the Commissioner of Police and District Collector of Pune regarding the proposed event of “Hindu Rashtra Jagruti Andolan” organised by Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS), set to take place in Shivajinagar, Pune, on the same day. Given HJS’s history of organising events that fuel communal discord, CJP urged the authorities to take the necessary preventive steps to prevent any hate-driven rhetoric and ensure public order in the city.
  9. On August 30, 2024, CJP approached the authorities in Ahmednagar to prevent the “Samarthan Rally for Ramgiri Maharaj” and “Nishesh Sabha against Hindu Atrocities in Bangladesh” organised by Sakal Hindu Samaj at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Memorial, scheduled for September 1, 2024. CJP warned that the event, which supported the controversial Ramgiri Maharaj, who had made derogatory comments about the Prophet Mohammad, could lead to heightened communal tensions. CJP cited several FIRs filed against Ramgiri Maharaj for his inflammatory speeches and urged the authorities to prevent any hate speech that could harm communal harmony.

September

  1. On September 2, 2024, CJP filed a complaint with Dhule Police against the “Hindu Garjana Sabha” organised by the Sri Ram Navami Utsav Samiti at Narayan Bua Samadhi Temple on September 3, 2024. CJP raised concerns about the involvement of BJP MLA T. Raja Singh, a known figure for his provocative speeches that incite communal hatred. The organisation also pointed out the connection between these events and the upcoming Assembly elections, emphasising that such gatherings, which promote divisive and inflammatory rhetoric, were likely aimed at exacerbating communal tensions and destabilising public peace.
  2. On September 4, 2024, CJP sought preventive action from the authorities in Patan, Satara against the ‘Hindu Janakrosh Morcha’ scheduled for September 5, 2024. The event, organised by Sakal Hindu Samaj and Swabhimani Nabhik Sanghatana, was framed around a controversial incident allegedly involving a Muslim man and a Hindu girl. CJP pointed out the dangerous timing of such rhetoric, given the approaching Assembly elections in Maharashtra, and warned that events like this could exacerbate communal tensions. CJP urged the authorities to closely monitor and, if necessary, restrict such events to prevent hate speech and potential violence.
  3. On September 4, 2024, CJP filed a complaint with Nagpur Police regarding the “Ghushpaithiya Mukt Maharashtra Sankalp Sabha” organised by the Ghushpeth Mukt Bharat Abhiyan at Geeta Mandir, Bhagwat Bhawan on September 5, 2024. CJP highlighted that the event was set to feature Suresh Chavhanke, a notorious figure known for his hate-filled rhetoric and his role as editor-in-chief of Sudarshan News, which has been linked to multiple incidents of hate speech. The organisation expressed concern that such an event, with its provocative agenda, could intensify communal tensions in the region, urging the authorities to intervene before any disturbances arise.
  4. On September 16, 2024, CJP submitted a complaint to the authorities in Shirala, Sangli, urging preventive action against the Hindu Janakrosh Morcha organised by Sakal Hindu Samaj on September 19, 2024. CJP raised concerns about the participation of BJP MLA Nitesh Rane, Anil Devlekar, and Hanmant Galande, all of whom have been associated with inflammatory and hate-filled speeches in the past. CJP emphasized that Nitesh Rane, in particular, has a long history of criminal charges related to promoting communal discord and inciting violence, making the event a potential threat to public peace and order.

Pattern of neglect and impunity

The refusal of law enforcement agencies to act on these complaints reflects a distressing trend: the normalisation of hate speech and the erosion of accountability. Each ignored complaint not only denies justice but also signals tacit approval of communal incitement. The failure to uphold the law has created an environment where hate speech thrives without consequence, emboldening those who seek to divide society.

As we step into 2025, the question remains: How long will institutions continue to shield perpetrators instead of upholding the rule of law? The silence of law enforcement is not just negligence—it is complicity. Without urgent corrective measures, India risks further descent into unchecked communal strife and deepening impunity.

Related:

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Looking back at 2024: Constitutional Court rulings that undermine justice and accountability

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Fighting Hate in 2024: How CJP Held Power to Account