Ottawa: Canada, often celebrated as a dream destination for immigrants, including Indians, due to its promise of higher education, free healthcare, social security benefits, retirement security, public safety, and improved public infrastructure, is now witnessing a disturbing trend. A new report indicates a sharp increase in racist and hate-filled remarks and crimes targeting South Asians, including Indians, across the country.
The Institute for Strategic Dialogue (ISD) reported a staggering 1,350% increase in racist and hate-filled remarks targeting South Asians between May 2023 and April 2025, compared to the previous year. The report also highlights a 200% increase in hate crimes since 2019. Brampton, Toronto, and Calgary are the cities where the highest number of hate crimes have been reported. The ISD report specifically notes a 227% increase in anti-South Asian hate crimes from 2019 to 2023. Statistics show that incidents reported to the police have risen from 140 to 458 annually. Between 2023 and 2024, social media hate posts targeting South Asians saw a 1,350% increase, reaching 26,600 by April 2025, according to the ISD report.
One particular post, calling for “deporting invaders,” garnered 760,000 views and 13,000 likes, reflecting the extensive reach of digital animosity. Various derogatory terms are circulating on social media, often portraying Indians in Canada as “dirty,” “unskilled,” or “threatening.” The report concludes that the escalating anti-South Asian hatred, both online and offline across Canada, poses an urgent threat to these communities and the social fabric of the nation.
