Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru
Bengaluru, June 24: In a decisive move to combat the growing menace of online misinformation and hate speech, the Karnataka government has introduced the Karnataka Hate Speech and Hate Crimes (Prevention and Regulation) Bill, 2025.
The proposed legislation seeks to criminalise hate speech and related digital offences, making them non-bailable and cognisable, with offenders facing up to three years in prison and a fine of Rs 5,000.
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The bill defines hate speech broadly, covering any form of expression—verbal, written or digital—that incites enmity, promotes hostility, or causes harm to individuals or groups based on religion, race, caste, community, gender, sexual orientation, place of birth, language, residence, disability or tribal identity. Those found guilty of engaging in or promoting such content could face stringent legal consequences under the new law.
A standout feature of the bill is the accountability it places on digital intermediaries. Social media platforms, search engines, telecom operators, online marketplaces, and internet service providers will be held directly responsible for content hosted on their platforms. If they fail to act against content flagged as hateful or false, they could face criminal prosecution, including imprisonment and financial penalties.
In addition to targeting content creators, the bill also takes aim at individuals and organisations that provide financial or logistical support to those spreading hate speech or fake news. Such contributors will be treated as primary offenders, liable to the same penalties as those who produce or post the content.
The legislation grants district collectors special powers to issue prohibitory orders in areas at risk of communal unrest. These powers allow authorities to prevent public gatherings, rallies, use of loudspeakers, and other actions that could incite violence or fear. Such restrictions may initially be imposed for up to 30 days, and extended to 60 days if necessary.
To support implementation, the bill calls for awareness campaigns and training programmes for government officials. Monitoring responsibilities may be assigned to existing state commissions, such as the Human Rights Commission or the Women’s Commission. Government officials acting in good faith while enforcing the law will be granted immunity from legal action.
The state government is also empowered to draft detailed rules and regulations for the enforcement of the bill, under the supervision of the state legislature.
While the legislation has been welcomed by those advocating stronger safeguards against digital hate and misinformation, it is also expected to spark robust debate about the boundaries of free speech. Legal experts and civil society organisations have raised concerns over the potential for misuse and the need for clear, narrowly defined criteria for what constitutes hate speech. As the bill makes its way through the legislative process, all eyes will be on how Karnataka balances civil liberties with the need for online accountability.
If enacted, this law would place Karnataka among the first Indian states to introduce a dedicated legal framework to address the challenges of digital hate and disinformation in a systematic and punitive manner.