Prejudice in Plain Sight

Rising hostility against Indians in Singapore exposes how even robust multicultural societies can become vulnerable to global waves of resentment, misinformation and racial anxiety

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Even a society celebrated for tolerance can become a stage for the quiet spread of xenophobia.

After rising hostility against Indians in countries like the United States, Britain, and Australia, Singapore—a city-state long celebrated as a model of multiculturalism and communal harmony—has also seen a subtle but growing wave of anti-Indian sentiment.

Traditionally known for its strict laws against racial discrimination and its carefully cultivated social compact, Singapore has become a surprising stage where resentment toward Indians, especially new migrants from India, has surfaced online and in public discourse. Viral videos of Indians allegedly littering beaches, misbehaving in public, or clashing with locals have circulated widely, sparking outrage and fuelling stereotypes. For a country that prides itself on racial harmony, the intensity of this reaction is both striking and concerning.

In recent years, several high-profile incidents have underscored this trend. In one widely reported case, a 55-year-old Indian woman was physically assaulted while walking outdoors, prompting police intervention and parliamentary condemnation. Other viral episodes included an Indian couple harassed while exercising, and an Indian family in a condominium told to “go back to your country” Even Indians who were born and raised in Singapore have reported being treated as outsiders, mistaken for recent arrivals. The impact on the Indian community has been profound: ordinary activities such as speaking Tamil in public, walking in parks, or socialising have become moments of heightened vigilance and unease.