In 2024, India witnessed a rise in communal violence, with 59 communal riots reported, an 84% increase from the previous year. Maharashtra had the highest number of riots, with 12 incidents, followed by Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, each with seven. These riots resulted in 13 deaths—three Hindus and ten Muslims.
The majority of these riots were triggered by religious festivals and processions, such as the Pran Pratishthan at the Ayodhya Ram Mandir (four riots in January), Saraswati Puja immersions (seven), Ganesh festivals (four), and Bakri Eid (two). According to the Centre for the Study of Society and Secularism (CSSS), religious events are increasingly being used as tools to stir communal tensions.
Communal Riots and the Role of Politics
The rise in violence is believed to be linked to the 2024 General Elections and state assembly elections in Maharashtra, Jharkhand, and Haryana. CSSS spokesperson, Dr. Ravi Sharma, said, “These riots reflect the growing politicization of religious festivals. Elections are often a time when communal rhetoric is used to mobilize votes, which makes the situation even worse.”
In addition to the communal riots, 12 mob lynching incidents were reported in 2024, resulting in 10 deaths—one Hindu, one Christian, and eight Muslims. Though this number is lower than the 21 lynchings in 2023, the persistence of such violence remains alarming. Six of the lynchings were linked to cow vigilantism or allegations of cow slaughter, and others were driven by accusations related to interfaith relationships.
Attacks on Religious Sites and the Use of Bulldozers
The year 2024 also saw a shift towards institutionalized violence, with attacks on religious sites and demands by right-wing groups to conduct archaeological surveys of historic mosques and dargahs, including the Ajmer Sharif Dargah. These actions, according to experts, are part of an effort to reshape India’s cultural and religious identity.
CSSS’s Annual Report noted, “The targeting of religious places and the continued use of bulldozers to demolish Muslim properties show how state power is being used to punish Muslims for their identity.”
The use of bulldozers to demolish properties without legal processes continues to be a symbol of collective punishment against the Muslim community. Many argue that these demolitions happen even when Muslims are the victims of communal violence, showing an imbalance in the application of justice.
Legislative Changes and Growing Concerns
In 2024, legislative changes were also seen, including the introduction of the Uniform Civil Code in Uttarakhand and amendments to the Waqf Board Act. Critics argue that these laws are pushing the agenda of the Hindu right wing, making life harder for minority communities.
Dr. Sharma added, “These changes, along with the rise in violence, have led to growing concerns about India’s secular fabric. The state’s actions against Muslims are becoming more institutionalized, which is deeply worrying.”
