Caste-Based Online Abuse: Lessons from Targeting Chief Justice of India B. R. Gavai
Author(s): Ashutosh Kumar Gautam
Abstract: Caste-based online abuse presents distinctive challenges to law and governance in India. The attempted physical attack on Chief Justice of India (CJI) B. R. Gavai in October 2025 and the rapid Proliferation of casteist speech, images, and social media that followed constitute a salient case study of how deep-rooted social hierarchies are reproduced and amplified in contemporary digital platforms. Drawing on statutory materials (IPC, SC/ST [Prevention of Atrocities] Act, IT Rules), contemporaneous reporting, and policy documents on intermediary liability and moderation, this article examines legal and practical obstacles to redressing caste-targeting online harms. It argues that the phenomenon requires an integrated socio-legal response, comparing clearer doctrinal treatment of “public view” in the digital context, forensic readiness for synthetic media, culturally informed moderation practices by intermediaries, and investment in counter-speech and legal aid for affected communities. The article concludes with recommendations that balance free-expression concerns with the need to protect dignity and public order.
Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Digital Platforms, Social Media, Casteist Speech, CJI
DOI: doi.org/10.65719/RC.3.2.2025.093
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