If You Face Language-Based Harassment in India: Know Your Rights!
India a nation where over 1,600 dialects and 22 official languages come together in a cultural symphony. But when this linguistic richness turns into tension, it creates space for discrimination. Have you ever faced rude remarks, bullying, or threats just because you spoke your native language?
Whether you’re a student, migrant worker, or simply someone expressing your identity, language-based harassment is real and you don’t have to stay silent. This blog walks you through your rights, the laws that protect you, and the steps you can take to stand up for yourself.
What Is Language-Based Harassment?
Language-based harassment occurs when someone targets you due to:
- The language you speak
- Your accent or dialect
- Your inability to speak a specific language
Examples include:
- Being called an “outsider” for speaking Hindi in a South Indian state
- Facing online trolling for using your regional language on X (formerly Twitter)
- Getting harassed or even attacked in public for not knowing the local language
- Being denied job opportunities or bullied at school for using your native tongue
This isn’t just cruel it’s illegal.
Your Legal Rights Against Language-Based Harassment
India’s Constitution and criminal laws give you solid protection. Let’s break down the rights you hold:
Freedom of Expression – Article 19(1)(a)
You can speak in any language Hindi, Tamil, Bengali, or English. No one can restrict this unless your words incite violence (Article 19(2)).
No Discrimination – Article 15
You can’t be denied jobs, services, or opportunities based on your language. It’s a violation of your fundamental rights.
Linguistic Minority Rights – Article 29(1)
If you belong to a linguistic minority, the law allows you to preserve and promote your language.
Right to Education in Your Language – Article 350A
Children have the right to receive primary education in their mother tongue, wherever possible.
Criminal Laws That Protect You
Hate Speech and Violence – IPC Section 153A
Promoting hatred or violence based on language can land the perpetrator in jail for up to 3 years.
Verbal Insults – IPC Section 504
If someone abuses you verbally due to your language, they can face up to 2 years of imprisonment.
Spreading Rumors – IPC Section 505
Anyone spreading lies that incite hate toward a language group can face 3 years in prison.
Cyber Harassment – IT Act, 2000
Online trolling on X, WhatsApp, or YouTube over your language is punishable under this act.
Sexual Harassment (Women) – IPC Sections 354A & 509
Women facing language-based sexual remarks are protected under these provisions, with jail time up to 3 years.
SC/ST Protection – PoA Act
If you’re from a Scheduled Caste or Tribe, and face harassment related to your language, the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act gives you extra legal shield.
Real-Life Cases That Made Headlines
Powai, Mumbai (2025):
A security guard was slapped by MNS workers for not speaking Marathi. The video went viral but action was delayed.
Bengaluru (2023–2024):
Shops with Hindi signage were vandalized by Kannada activists. Migrant workers were abused for using Hindi.
Chennai, Tamil Nadu:
Hindi speakers report being mocked due to lingering anti-Hindi sentiments from the 1960s.
These stories are just the tip of the iceberg and they reflect how language can be misused as a tool of division.
Why Does This Harassment Happen?
Let’s understand the root causes:
1. Regional Pride
In states like Maharashtra or Karnataka, some people believe speaking the local language is a form of respect. While pride is natural, violence or hate isn’t justified.
2. Migrant Anxiety
When migrants arrive, locals often feel job insecurity, and target the language as a symbol of intrusion.
3. Political Fuel
Some political parties exploit linguistic identities to build vote banks, often stirring anti-“outsider” feelings.
4. Cultural Stereotypes
English may be seen as elitist, while Hindi as imposed both views contribute to misunderstandings.
What to Do If You Face Language-Based Harassment
Don’t panic document, report, and fight back. Here’s how Language-Based Harassment Rights India
1. Gather Proof
- Take screenshots of messages or posts
- Record videos or audio if safe
- Note time, date, location, and witnesses
2. File a Police Complaint
- Visit your local police station and file an FIR under relevant IPC sections
- For online abuse, report at cybercrime.gov.in
- If the police refuse to act, file a private complaint through the magistrate court
3. Get Legal Help
- Call NALSA (15100) for free legal assistance
- NGOs like PUCL offer support in human rights cases
4. Report Internally
- If it happens at work, inform HR. The POSH Act protects women employees.
- Students can raise complaints to school/college authorities or education boards
5. Speak Out Safely
- Share your experience on X to spread awareness
- Tag verified activists or legal experts for support
- Join local groups or community forums
6. Protect Your Mental Health
Language-based hate can be emotionally damaging. Call helplines like:
- Vandrevala Foundation: 1860-266-2345
- Sneha India: 044-24640050
Challenges You May Face
Even with laws in place, the system isn’t always smooth.
- Police Inaction: Complaints are often dismissed as “minor issues”
- Judicial Delay: Court cases take time and patience
- Fear of Retaliation: Migrants often fear violence or eviction
- Political Interference: Perpetrators may have backing from local parties
💡 Tip: Stay consistent, keep documentation, and reach out to legal aid groups.
How We Can Promote Linguistic Unity
This battle isn’t just legal it’s social and cultural too. Here’s how we can help each other:
- Celebrate Linguistic Diversity: Respect and appreciate every language
- Avoid Language Shaming: Don’t mock someone’s accent or fluency
- Support Inclusion at Schools and Workplaces
- Raise Awareness: Use social media responsibly to share stories of harmony
- Demand Better Law Enforcement and Policy Training
People also read : hindi-vs-kannada
Language-Based Harassment Rights India FAQs:
Q: Can I file a case if someone mocks my accent online?
A: Yes! Save screenshots and report it under IPC Section 504 or the IT Act via cybercrime.gov.in.
Q: What if the police won’t register my complaint?
A: Approach a magistrate to file a private complaint. You can also contact NALSA at 15100 for free legal help.
Q: Does the law protect English speakers too?
A: Absolutely. Article 15 and IPC Sections 504 and 153A protect you regardless of which language you speak.
Q: Can schools punish students for using their mother tongue?
A: No. Article 350A ensures children can study in their mother tongue at the primary level.
Q: How do I stay safe after reporting harassment?
A: Don’t engage with the harasser. Keep evidence safe, share with trusted contacts, and reach out to NGOs for support.
