A groundbreaking 11-year survey conducted by Dr. Sunil Jaglan, founder of the Selfie With Daughter Foundation and Professor of Practice at Maharshi Dayanand University, has revealed troubling statistics about the widespread use of abusive language across India. However, Jammu & Kashmir has emerged as one of the least affected regions, with only 15% of its residents reportedly engaging in such language.

The survey, which involved over 70,000 participants from diverse social and professional backgrounds—including youth, parents, teachers, students, doctors, auto drivers, police officers, businessmen, sanitation workers, professors, and panchayat members—highlights a concerning cultural trend in several states.

States with Highest Usage of Abusive Language:

• Delhi leads the nation with 80% of residents regularly using abusive terms.
• Punjab follows closely with 78%.
• Uttar Pradesh and Bihar are tied at 74%.
• Other high-ranking states include:
  • Rajasthan (68%)
  • Haryana (62%)
  • Maharashtra (58%)
  • Gujarat (55%)
  • Madhya Pradesh (48%)
  • Uttarakhand (45%)

In contrast, Jammu & Kashmir’s relatively low percentage (15%) suggests a greater cultural resistance to verbal abuse compared to the rest of the country. Even the northeastern states, along with others, report usage ranging between 20–30%, making J&K one of the more disciplined regions in terms of verbal civility.

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Women Also Affected

The study debunks the myth that abusive language is a male-dominated habit. Alarmingly, around 30% of women and girls were also found to use derogatory terms, particularly those targeting mothers, sisters, and daughters. This trend is especially prominent in schools and colleges, raising concerns about early exposure and normalization.

A Cultural Disease, Not a Norm

Dr. Jaglan describes this pattern as a “societal disease”, not a cultural trait. According to him, most individuals are introduced to abusive language at a young age, often through family members, and it gradually becomes a part of everyday speech.

The “Gal! Band Ghar” Campaign

In response to the growing concern, Dr. Jaglan launched the “Gal! Band Ghar” (Abuse-Free Home) campaign in 2014. The initiative, which has now reached over 60,000 locations across India, aims to encourage families to pledge against using abusive language at home. Communities are provided with charts and materials to promote respectful and mindful communication.

The campaign has gained international recognition and continues to grow in momentum, encouraging Indian households to make a conscious shift toward positive speech and respectful dialogue.

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Jammu & Kashmir: A Role Model?

With only 15% of the population reportedly engaging in abusive language, Jammu & Kashmir sets an encouraging example for the rest of the nation. The region’s restrained use of profanity highlights the potential for positive cultural practices and the importance of upholding civility in communication, especially among youth.

The survey underscores the urgency of addressing verbal abuse as a social problem, particularly in urban centers like Delhi, and calls for nationwide awareness campaigns, community participation, and educational reforms to foster a more respectful society.