Manusmriti disrespected by Maharashtra sub-inspector on social media
Maharashtra, India 
11 February, 2025
Case Summary
Maharashtra Sub-Inspector Priya Jatav posted derogatory content on social media against Manusmriti, a Hindu religious text considered sacred in traditional Hindu law and philosophy. She shared an image on Facebook showing a shoe placed on Manusmriti and wrote in Hindi, “A book that does not give you respect, crush it by your feet.” On 25 December 2024, she posted similar content on Instagram. She shared a reel celebrating "Manusmriti Dahan Diwas," an event observed by some groups to symbolise disrespect of the text. Manusmriti, often regarded as an ancient legal and ethical scripture, has been historically significant in shaping Hindu social laws. It is considered sacred by many Hindus, while some critics have opposed its views on caste and gender. The incident led to discussions on social media regarding freedom of expression and religious sentiments.
Why it is Hate Crime ?
This is a religiously motivated hate crime under the prime category of- Attack on Hindu religious representation. Under this, the sub-category selected is- Desecration of Hindu religious symbol. Icons and symbols or a religious representation of a spiritual ideal are widely revered in Hinduism. Iconography is of vital significance in the Hindu milieu. It helps connect people’s spiritual beliefs with the real world. Iconography within the Hindu faith takes several shapes and forms. Murtis are of most significance to Hindus, to which daily rituals, prayers and offerings are done. Besides the murtis, there are several other symbols which have deep significance in the Hindu faith – the Om and Swastika for example. Since these Hindu religious symbols hold paramount importance in Hinduism, any desecration of symbols, icons, murtis, religious representations and manifestations, is driven by animosity towards the faith itself which manifests itself through these murtis, icons and symbols. Therefore, any desecration of these Hindu religious symbols and representations is considered religiously motivated hate crimes under this category. The Manusmriti is one of the foundational texts in Hinduism, traditionally attributed to the sage Manu. It serves as a dharmaśāstra, offering guidance on various aspects of life, including morality, law, and social conduct. It is a symbol of Hindu cultural and religious heritage and desecrating the holy text can be viewed as an affront to Hinduism. There could be no other reason than an inherent animosity against Hinduism that led the Maharashtra sub-inspector to commit the offence. Since disrespect for the Hindu religion is the primary purpose behind this incident, this case has been added to the tracker.
Case Status
Unknown
Perpetrators Details
Perpetrators
Others
Perpetrators Range
One Person
Perpetrators Gender
female
Sources 
