Karnataka Hate Speech Bill Sparks Chaos in Assembly | Congress Backs Legislation, BJP Alleges Attack on Free Speech
Belagavi/Bengaluru: The Karnataka Assembly witnessed intense uproar, loud protests, and repeated disruptions on Monday as the state government tabled the Karnataka Hate Speech and Hate Crimes Prevention Bill, 2025. Despite the chaos, Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H. K. Patil managed to introduce the Bill on the floor of the House.
The moment the Speaker U. T. Khader put the motion for permission to table the Bill, BJP legislators shouted “No, No” while ruling Congress members overwhelmingly responded “Yes”. Due to microphone glitches and escalating disruptions, the session had to be briefly adjourned for ten minutes.
Congress Defends Bill; ‘Only those who disturb peace fear this law,’ says HK Patil
Speaking after the tabling of the Bill, Minister H. K. Patil launched a sharp counterattack on the Opposition.
“The Constitution already prohibits hate speech. We are only implementing those principles. Why is the BJP so anxious? If they have done no wrong, why fear this Bill?” he asked.
Patil added that the Bill aims to protect peace and harmony across communities.
“Those who want societal peace will never oppose this legislation. Only those who thrive on disturbing social harmony will resist it,” he remarked.
Priyank Kharge Questions BJP’s Anxiety
Congress MLA Priyank Kharge also defended the government, stating:
“Why is the BJP getting restless? Who are they trying to protect? This Bill is for public safety, not political targeting.”
BJP Hits Back: ‘This is a conspiracy to silence the Opposition’
Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka strongly opposed the Bill, accusing the government of attempting to curb free speech.
“This is nothing but a conspiracy. The Bill is aimed at silencing Opposition leaders under the guise of hate speech. Anyone who speaks against the government will be targeted. The Congress wants to crush political dissent,” he alleged.
He further said:
“You can bring whatever Bill you want. We will continue speaking the truth. If you want to file cases, go ahead. If you want to imprison us, do that too. But we will not stop.”
What the Hate Speech Bill Proposes
The proposed Bill introduces stringent penalties for hate speech:
- Minimum 1 year to maximum 7 years imprisonment for first-time offenders
- Fine up to ₹50,000
- For repeat offenders, 2 to 10 years imprisonment
- Covers hate speech targeting religion, caste, tribe, gender, sexual orientation, community, language, disability, or place of birth
The Bill has triggered a major political confrontation, with the Opposition alleging misuse and the ruling party insisting it is a constitutional obligation to curb hate crimes.
The debate is expected to intensify when the House resumes further discussion.
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