As per the Bill, making ‘hate speech’ or circulating it will amount to committing a ‘hate crime’, which will attract a minimum jail term of one year, extendable up to seven, with a fine of Rs 50,000.
Belagavi
The Karnataka government on Wednesday introduced the Karnataka Hate Speech and Hate Crimes (Prevention) Bill, 2025, in the Assembly, prompting vocal resistance from BJP legislators. Home Minister G. Parameshwara presented the Bill, while Speaker U.T. Khader sought voice votes. BJP members shouted “nay,” with MLA V. Sunil Kumar demanding a division of votes, but the Speaker permitted the Bill to be tabled.
The BJP’s reaction signalled its intention either to oppose the Bill outright or push for its referral to a select committee.
Under the proposed law, delivering or circulating hate speech will be treated as a hate crime, carrying a minimum one-year jail term, extendable up to seven years, along with a ₹50,000 fine. Repeat offenders may face two to ten years of imprisonment and a fine of ₹1 lakh.
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar later told reporters that preventing hate speech was part of the government’s core agenda, stressing the need to uphold peace and law and order across the state.
Key Provisions of the Hate Speech Regulation Bill
- The Bill aims to prevent the dissemination, publication, or promotion of hate speech.
- It seeks to curb crimes that incite hatred against specific individuals, groups, or organizations.
- Cases under this Bill are non-bailable.
- Hate speech cases will be tried by a First-Class Judicial Magistrate.
- Any police officer of rank not below Executive Magistrate or Deputy Superintendent of Police can register and investigate complaints under this law.
- Both registered and unregistered organizations involved in hate speech can be held accountable.
- The Bill empowers authorities to block or remove online content containing hate speech from domains or platforms.
BJP rakes up power tussle issue in Assembly
Belagavi
The power tussle between Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar came under the spotlight in the Assembly on Wednesday when Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka raised concerns over political uncertainty affecting state development. Concluding his debate on North Karnataka, Ashoka argued that strong, decisive leadership was essential for progress, and unresolved leadership issues were hindering growth across the region. Ashoka also criticized Siddaramaiah for failing to deliver on North Karnataka promises, demanding a whitepaper on funds released. Responding, Congress MLAs accused the BJP of internal instability
Horatti corruption allegations spark debate in Council
Bengaluru
Allegations of corruption against Karnataka Legislative Council Chairman Basavaraj Horatti surfaced during a question-and-answer session, with Congress member Nagaraj Yadav raising serious concerns. Yadav claimed Horatti was not fit to occupy the chairman’s post. JDS legislator Bhojegowda highlighted Yadav’s grave claims, including a circulating video accusing the chair of graft and deeming Horatti unfit for the role. He urged a house discussion to uphold the position’s dignity.
Congress’s Hariprasad condemned such accusations against presiding officers, citing past instances. BJP’s CT Ravi decried it as character assassination and mental harassment, noting alternatives like no-confidence motions exist. Puttanna emphasized respecting the chair and advised opposition-government action without debate.
Opposition leader Chalavadi Narayanaswamy’s remarks drew objections, leading to review. Deputy Chairman Pranesh concluded it as an internal matter, advising restraint to prevent future incidents and ending the discussion.
