Daijiworld Media Network - Belagavi

Belagavi, Dec 11: The Karnataka government on Wednesday tabled the Karnataka Hate Speech and Hate Crimes (Prevention) Bill, 2025 in the Legislative Assembly, aiming to curb hate speech across the state.

After the Question Hour, home minister Dr G Parameshwara introduced the Bill, which was strongly opposed by BJP members. The Bill proposes a fine of up to Rs 1 lac and imprisonment of up to 10 years. It was approved by the state cabinet on December 4.

When Parameshwara sought the House’s permission to introduce the Bill and Speaker U T Khader put it to a voice vote, BJP MLAs shouted ‘No’ in protest. Despite requests from BJP members, including Sunil Kumar, for a division of votes, the Speaker continued with the process of tabling the Bill.

The Bill aims to curb the dissemination, publication, and promotion of hate speech. Any speech, expression, or publication—targeting a living or deceased individual or group, intended to create hatred or ill will, or made to serve prejudiced interests—will be classified as hate speech.

Any bias based on religion, race, caste or community, gender, sexual orientation, place of birth, residence, language, disability, or tribal identity will be considered hate speech.

For first-time offences related to hate speech or hate crimes, the Bill provides for imprisonment ranging from a minimum of one year to a maximum of seven years, along with a Rs 50,000 fine.

Repeat offences can attract imprisonment from two to ten years and a fine of up to Rs 1 lac.

Cases registered under hate speech will be non-bailable. Enquiries must be conducted by a first-class judicial magistrate. Executive magistrates or police officers not below the rank of deputy superintendent of police are empowered to investigate and take action under this law.