Karnataka Police Records Show Alarming Rise in Hate Speech Cases During Elections
Police data from Karnataka has revealed a concerning trend of hate speeches across the state, with 270 cases registered and 259 individuals arrested between 2022 and 2025. According to senior police officials, the overwhelming majority of these incidents—approximately 95%—occurred during political campaigns surrounding various elections.
Kodagu District Leads with 64 Cases Following Temple Attire Controversy
The district of Kodagu emerged as the epicenter of hate speech incidents, recording 64 cases and 56 arrests during this period. Investigating officers attribute this surge to a contentious controversy that erupted last year regarding dress codes at local temples. The dispute began when a temple barred certain locals wearing traditional Kodava attire from entry, citing bylaws requiring devotees to wear dhotis. This incident triggered a wave of cases and counter-cases involving hate speeches throughout Kodagu.
Political Campaigns Fuel Majority of Hate Speech Incidents
A senior police officer explained, "Over 250 cases were registered specifically during campaigning for assembly and parliamentary elections. In several instances, first-line leaders from prominent political parties were identified as making hate speeches. Beyond these leaders, their followers and party functionaries were also booked for similar offenses." The officer further noted that upon detailed examination, religious and caste-based comments constituted the primary themes of these inflammatory speeches.
Police Proactive Measures and Investigation Challenges
Another officer highlighted that many cases were registered suo motu by police authorities. "Whenever we encounter incidents of hate speech, we register suo motu cases if no formal complaints are filed. Evidence typically comes in the form of videos, mostly shared on social media platforms, which serve as strong technical evidence," he stated.
Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) R Hitendra emphasized that hate speeches during political rallies and election campaigns often escalate tensions, prompting preventive measures. "This is precisely why we require organizers of political rallies to provide undertakings. Additionally, a police official records the entire campaign or rally, including all speeches and interactions. Sometimes, miscreants post fabricated and edited videos on social media, spreading false information. In such situations, our recorded videos help establish the truth," Hitendra explained.
Interpretation Difficulties in Hate Speech Cases
Another senior police officer pointed out the challenges in handling hate speech cases. "Such speeches often have two faces and are viewed favorably by some while being condemned by opposing parties. Therefore, when filing chargesheets, we ensure we present matters exactly as they were seen or heard, avoiding any interpretations," he said.
District-wise Breakdown of Hate Speech Cases
Following Kodagu, other districts with significant numbers include:
- Bengaluru city: 20 cases, 18 arrests
- Shivamogga: 14 cases, 12 arrests
- Belagavi district: 12 cases, 1 arrest
- Udupi: 11 cases, 16 arrests
- Mysuru city: 9 cases, 3 arrests
- Hubballi-Dharwad: 8 cases, 19 arrests
- Mangaluru: 7 cases, 4 arrests
- Kalaburagi: 6 cases, 5 arrests
- Bengaluru Urban: 5 cases, 0 arrests
These figures, sourced from Karnataka police, cover the period from 2022 to 2025 and highlight the geographical spread of hate speech incidents across the state.
