Archive · 2 Jan 2026
UK Hindu, Sikh groups criticize anti-Muslim hostility definition
Some groups in the UK are worried about a new definition of anti-Muslim hostility.
They think it might make it hard to criticize the religion of Islam without being accused of hate.
The Hindu Council and Sikh groups say this could be dangerous for them and other minorities.
They also think the definition is too vague and could be used to punish people unfairly.
The government says they are still thinking about the recommendations and will protect freedom of speech.
Hindu and Sikh groups in the UK have expressed concerns over a proposed definition of anti-Muslim hostility.
The definition is criticized for not clearly distinguishing between hostility towards Muslims and criticism of Islam.
Groups fear the definition could be used to stifle freedom of expression and unfairly disadvantage minority communities.
The draft definition includes acts of violence, vandalism, harassment, and institutional discrimination against Muslims.
The government has not commented on the leaked draft but emphasizes tackling hatred and extremism while protecting freedom of speech.
- Who
- Hindu Council UK, Network of Sikh Organisations, National Secular Society, UK government's Working Group on Anti-Muslim Hatred/Islamophobia
- What
- Criticism of the proposed definition of anti-Muslim hostility for its potential to stifle freedom of expression and critique of Islam
- When
- The draft was leaked to the media recently, and the Hindu Council UK wrote to Communities Secretary Steve Reed this week
- Where
- United Kingdom
- Why
- Concerns over the definition's ambiguity and potential to disadvantage minority communities and freedom of expression
- Groups Involved
- Hindu Council UK, Network of Sikh Organisations, National Secular Society
- Government Body
- Working Group on Anti-Muslim Hatred/Islamophobia
- Key Concern
- Ambiguity in distinguishing criticism of Islam from hostility towards Muslims
- Potential Impact
- Institutional policies in universities, local councils, NHS, employers, and regulators
- Government Response
- Declined to comment on the leaked draft, emphasizing tackling hatred and extremism