BJP Leaders Urge Governor to Block 'Hate Speech' Bill Amid Free Speech Concerns
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Multiple Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders, including a union minister, have written to Karnataka Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot, urging him to reject the Hate Speech and Hate Crimes (Prevention) Bill, 2025. The bill, passed in the state assembly last week, has sparked concerns over its potential to silence opposition voices, restrain the media, and intimidate citizens who speak out against hate speech. Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje, who announced her opposition to the bill on social media, claimed it hands the state sweeping authority to control speech and expression. She argued that the bill is not a hate speech prevention measure, but rather a tool to suppress free speech and democratic dissent. BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal also expressed concerns over the bill, stating that it could prevent people from speaking out on important issues and suppress constructive criticism. The Hindu Janajagruti Samiti, a right-wing organisation, submitted a memorandum to the governor, warning that the bill could be misused to suppress dissent and silence critics. However, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah defended the bill's passage, stating that it applies to all parties equally and is necessary to maintain peace and brotherhood in society. The bill is currently pending the governor's approval and could be sent to the president for consideration under Article 200. Critics of the bill argue that it departs from constitutional limits by using broad and subjective expressions, such as disharmony and ill will, which are not precisely defined. They also claim that the bill grants sweeping powers to executive magistrates and police officials without adequate judicial oversight, which could lead to the suppression of free expression and the harassment of citizens, including journalists and social activists. The bill's passage has sparked a heated debate over free speech and the role of the state in regulating expression. As the governor weighs his options, the fate of the Hate Speech and Hate Crimes (Prevention) Bill, 2025, remains uncertain.
