Karnataka Assembly Enacts Hate Speech Prevention Bill Amid Opposition Protests

Karnataka Assembly Passes Controversial Bill

On Thursday, the Karnataka Assembly approved a significant bill aimed at curbing hate speech and hate crimes, despite facing protests from opposition members.

Introduced by Home Minister G Parameshwara, the Karnataka Hate Speech and Hate Crimes Prevention Bill addresses hate speech expressed verbally, in print, or online.

The legislation stipulates that individuals found guilty of hate crimes could face imprisonment ranging from less than one year to a maximum of seven years, along with a fine of Rs 50,000.

If the offense is repeated, the minimum sentence would be two years, potentially extending to seven years, with a fine of Rs 1 lakh.

Parameshwara noted that the bill was introduced following a Supreme Court directive in May, which emphasized the need for stringent measures against communal hatred and hate speech.

The minister expressed confidence that this legislation would significantly aid in curbing the spread of hate speech and related crimes.

Opposition leader R Ashoka criticized the bill, claiming it infringes on freedom of speech and press. He accused the ruling Congress party of using the bill to target opposition parties and media outlets.

Ashoka warned that the proposed law could be misused for political vendettas, potentially backfiring on the Congress party.

Following the rejection of a request to refer the bill to a committee for further examination, BJP members staged a walkout from the Assembly.