Hate crimes: an Indian study

Hate crimes have been prevalent in our society for centuries. The concept of hate crimes, their nature and their scope are not simple definitions; there are numerous complexities involved in deciphering the conceptualization, legislation, and social impacts of hate crimes. As per McLaughlin, hate crime laws are a 'positive affirmation',1 which may be seen as an extension of civil rights into the criminal legal arena.2 The creation of legislation relating to hate crimes brings hate crimes into the public domain and sends out a clear message to society that hate crimes shall not be tolerated.