Confronting Far-Right Hindu Extremism in Australia

A recent report by the Centre for the Study of Online Hate (CSOH) highlights how Elon Musk’s platform, X (formerly Twitter), has amplified Islamophobic narratives in the UK. The report focuses on the resurgence of the “grooming gangs” narrative in early 2025, which falsely portrays Muslim men, particularly those of Pakistani descent, as being collectively responsible for sexual abuse crimes.

Key Findings:

• Racialized Scapegoating: The discourse perpetuates harmful stereotypes, casting Muslim men as inherent threats, thereby fueling racial panic and undermining social cohesion.
• Institutional Distrust: Allegations suggest that authorities, including political parties and the judiciary, have deliberately concealed crimes to protect minority communities, fostering a narrative of institutional betrayal.
• Attack on Multiculturalism: The narrative positions multiculturalism and political correctness as enablers of such crimes, challenging the very fabric of a diverse society.

The report highlights Musk’s significant role in amplifying these narratives. Since acquiring X, he has dismantled trust and safety systems, reinstated banned far-right accounts, and engaged with extremist content under the guise of promoting free speech. This has provided a platform for Islamophobic rhetoric to flourish, legitimizing extremist views and eroding public trust in democratic institutions.

Australia Must Address the Rising Threat of Far-Right Hindu Extremism

The insights from the UK report serve as a cautionary tale for Australia, where far-right Hindu extremist ideologies are gaining tracThe insights from the UK report serve as a cautionary tale for Australia, where far-right Hindu extremist ideologies are gaining traction, posing a significant threat to the nation’s multicultural fabric.

In Australia, groups aligned with the Hindutva ideology, such as the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and its affiliate, the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS), have established a presence. These organizations promote a Hindu nationalist agenda that often marginalizes minorities and undermines democratic values. Reports indicate that HSS operates numerous branches across Australia, conducting training camps that have raised concerns about the propagation of extremist ideologies.

Furthermore, there have been allegations of Indian intelligence activities targeting the Indian diaspora in Australia, aiming to suppress dissent and monitor critics of the Indian government. Such actions not only infringe upon individual freedoms but also threaten Australia’s sovereignty and the safety of its diverse communities.

The Australian government has been criticized for its lack of preparedness in addressing this emerging threat. Despite calls from various community leaders and organizations to recognize and monitor far-right Hindu extremism, there has been limited action. This inaction risks allowing extremist ideologies to take root, potentially leading to increased social divisions and undermining Australia’s commitment to multiculturalism.

Recommendations:

1. Enhanced Monitoring: Security agencies should prioritize the surveillance of extremist groups promoting Hindutva ideologies, ensuring that any activities threatening social harmony are promptly addressed.
2. Community Engagement: Foster open dialogues with diverse communities to understand their concerns and experiences, promoting inclusivity and mutual respect.
3. Legislative Action: Consider proscribing organizations that propagate hate and violence, similar to measures taken against other extremist groups.
4. Digital Regulation: Implement stricter regulations on social media platforms to prevent the spread of extremist content and misinformation.

By taking proactive steps, Australia can safeguard its multicultural society against the rising tide of far-right Hindu extremism, ensuring a harmonious and inclusive future for all its citizens.