Karnataka Assembly Passes Hate Speech Bill Amid Protest
The Hate Speech and Hate Crimes (Prevention) Bill, the first such law in the country, has a provision for a jail term up to seven years and fine up to Rs one lakh
Belagavi: Amid stiff opposition and a walkout by the BJP, the Karnataka Hate Speech and Hate Crimes (Prevention) Bill, 2025 was passed in the Legislative Assembly on Thursday.
Introducing the Bill, Home Minister G. Parameshwara said the proposed legislation aims to prevent and curb the dissemination and propagation of hate speech and hate-motivated crimes that create social discord or hostility against individuals, groups or institutions. He said the law also provides for punishment of offenders and compensation for victims who suffer harm.
Appealing to members to support the Bill, the Home Minister said it was intended to safeguard social harmony. The legislation was passed by voice vote.
Opposition members objected to the Bill, alleging it was being rushed through without adequate discussion. Tensions rose when Minister Byrathi Suresh accused BJP leaders of instigating unrest in coastal Karnataka, prompting strong protests from BJP legislators.
As the Bill was taken up for passage, BJP members rushed into the well of the House. Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka tore a copy of the Bill and, along with other BJP MLAs, staged a walkout.
Speaking to reporters later, Ashoka said the Bill should have been referred to a House committee for detailed scrutiny. He alleged that the legislation could be misused to target journalists, political analysts and Opposition leaders, and criticised the Speaker for not allowing sufficient debate.
“We will continue to oppose this undemocratic move,” Ashoka said.
