Overview
- The Karnataka legislature passed the Hate Speech and Hate Crimes (Prevention) Bill during the winter session and sent it to Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot for approval.
- BJP leaders and right-wing groups submitted memoranda urging the Governor to withhold assent or reserve the Bill, as party units held protests in Belagavi, Mysuru and Kalaburagi.
- Critics argue the Bill uses vague terms, makes certain offences cognisable and non-bailable, and could shift burdens of proof in ways that chill legitimate expression.
- Chief Minister Siddaramaiah defended the measure as a tool against hateful, provocative speech and said it would apply equally to all political parties.
- Reporting on the Bill's provisions cites prison terms of up to seven years, victim compensation and powers to order online content removal, as BJP leaders warn they will move court if assent is granted.