On Thursday, December 18, 2025, the Karnataka Legislative Assembly passed the Karnataka Hate Speech and Hate Crimes (Prevention) Bill, 2025, amidst strong protests from the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The bill, piloted by Home Minister G Parameshwara, aims to curb the dissemination, publication, and promotion of hate speech and hate crimes within the state.
The new law defines hate speech as any expression that causes injury or disharmony against individuals or groups based on religion, race, caste, gender, sexual orientation, place of birth, or disability. It covers communication made in public view through verbal, print, public, or electronic means. It introduces the concept of "collective liability," potentially holding individuals in positions of responsibility within an organization accountable if hate speech is committed through that organization. The bill also empowers the government to order the removal of hate speech content from online platforms.
The bill prescribes strict penalties for offenders. A first offense could result in imprisonment for a term not less than one year, potentially extending to seven years, and a fine of Rs 50,000. Subsequent offenses could lead to imprisonment between two and seven years, along with a fine of Rs 1 lakh. The bill also proposes compensation for victims of hate speech.
Introducing the bill, Parameshwara referenced a Supreme Court judgement from May 5, 2025, which emphasized the need to address the spread of communal hatred firmly. He argued that hate speech often leads to violence and clashes between communities, thereby adversely affecting societal well-being. The legislation seeks to uphold constitutional ideals by preventing discrimination and prejudice based on religion, race, caste, gender, language, and other grounds.
The opposition BJP strongly opposed the bill, with Leader of the Opposition R Ashok tearing a copy of it in the House. BJP members expressed concerns that the ruling party would use the law to silence critics and muzzle the opposition. BJP state president BY Vijayendra likened the Congress regime's move to the emergency days of 1975, suggesting it infringes on the freedom of expression.
During the bill's discussion, an amendment was proposed and accepted to clarify that the maximum punishment would be seven years instead of the initially proposed ten years. The Home Minister emphasized the need for a precise definition of hate crimes to effectively address statements and actions targeting specific communities.
The bill has sparked debate regarding free speech, potential overcriminalization, federal overlap, and constitutional validity. While proponents argue it is necessary to combat rising social polarization, critics raise concerns about its expansive definitions, harsh penalties, and the broad powers it grants to the executive branch.
