NEW DELHI, July 27: People from the Northeast use the least abusive language in the country, a study has found.
The 11-year study, covering nearly 70,000 participants across India, revealed that the states in the Northeast demonstrate remarkably low rates of abusive language compared to other parts of India. The region had rates ranging from 20 to 30%.
The Northeastern states maintain significantly lower percentages and this regional pattern suggests cultural and social factors that protect respectful communication norms. Only Jammu & Kashmir is ranked lower than the Northeast on the list, with only 15% of respondents reporting the use of abusive language, setting a national benchmark for respectful discourse.
Northeast’s low abuse rates may reflect the region’s distinct cultural values, educational emphasis and community structures that prioritise respectful communication. This regional success story offers valuable lessons for national efforts to reduce verbal abuse and promote dignified discourse across the Indian society.
Northeast is a linguistically diverse region with a multitude of languages spoken across its eight states. These languages belong to various language families, including Indo-Aryan, Tibeto-Burman, Tai-Kadai, and Austro-Asiatic. Some of the most prominent languages include Assamese, Bengali, Bodo, Khasi, and Manipuri.
Delhi tops the national rankings with 80% of respondents admitting to regular use of abusive language, particularly targeting women. Delhi is closely followed by Punjab at 78%.
Uttar Pradesh and Bihar each recorded 74% usage rates, while Rajasthan reported 68% and Haryana 62%. Western states showed relatively better figures, with Maharashtra at 58% and Gujarat at 55%. Madhya Pradesh registered 48%, and Uttarakhand recorded 45%.
Regional variations reflect complex socio-cultural factors. Urban stress in cities like Mumbai and Pune contributes to harsh language use, while rural dialects sometimes incorporate strong expressions without malicious intent. Even Gujarat, known for polite communication, shows casual abuse among younger demographics.
The study uncovered concerning gender dynamics, with 30% of women participants acknowledging their use of abusive language, indicating the problem transcends traditional gender boundaries. The research, conducted by the Selfie with Daughter Foundation in partnership with Maharshi Dayanand University, examined communication patterns across diverse demographics, including students, teachers, healthcare professionals, auto drivers, and police personnel. The study forms part of the “Gaali Band Ghar Abhiyan” campaign led by Dr Sunil Jaglan.
