Overview
- Home Minister G. Parameshwara tabled the Bill in Belagavi; it has not been enacted as BJP members shouted “no” during a voice vote.
- First convictions carry at least one year in prison, extending up to seven years with a ₹50,000 fine, rising to two to ten years and ₹1 lakh for repeat offences.
- Offences are cognisable and non-bailable, trials will be before a Judicial Magistrate First Class, and courts may award compensation to victims.
- A designated officer may order intermediaries or service providers to block or remove hate content; the text limits ‘communication’ to expressions made in public view.
- The Bill lists protected characteristics, extends liability to organisations, provides preventive powers to magistrates and police, and exempts material proven to serve the public good.