Karnataka Assembly passes Hate Speech Bill amid opposition uproar
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Belagavi: The Karnataka Assembly on Thursday passed the Hate Speech and Hate Crimes (Prevention) Bill, the first legislation of its kind in the country, amid loud protests by Bharatiya Janata Party legislators.
The Bill, which provides for imprisonment of up to seven years and a fine of up to ₹1 lakh, was passed amid din as BJP members disrupted proceedings. Cleared by the state cabinet on December 4, the legislation was introduced in the Assembly by Home Minister G Parameshwara on December 10.
Parameshwara said the provision prescribing a 10-year jail term for repeat offences had been reduced to seven years. As per the Bill, hate speech includes any expression—spoken or written, or conveyed through signs, visible representations, electronic communication, or other means—made in public view with the intent to cause injury, disharmony, enmity, hatred or ill-will against any person, whether living or dead, or against any class, group, or community, in a manner prejudicial to public interest.
During the discussion, Urban Development Minister Byrathi Suresh said coastal Karnataka was “burning” due to incidents of hate speech and hate crimes. BJP legislators from the region objected to the remark and entered the well of the House, followed by other party members.
Despite the disruption, the Assembly proceeded to pass the Bill later in the day.
With PTI inputs