The Karnataka BJP has voiced opposition to the Hate Speech Bill, aiming to persuade Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot against granting assent, citing concerns over stifling freedom of speech. Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka criticized the government for passing the bill without proper discussion, emphasizing the importance of deliberation in the legislative process. Ashoka plans to lead a delegation to meet the Governor to address these issues.
Expressing strong dissent, Ashoka highlighted that the bill could infringe on people’s and media’s freedom, drawing parallels to the restrictions imposed during the Emergency era. He underscored the necessity for dialogue and transparency in governance, asserting the need for a platform to address grievances. The proposed Hate Speech Bill aims to combat hate speech and hate-related crimes, proposing stringent penalties including imprisonment and fines for offenders.
The BJP leader also raised concerns about attempts to make Malayalam language mandatory in Kannada schools, linking it to leaders associated with Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar and CM Siddaramaiah from Kerala. Ashoka criticized the government’s handling of the situation, pointing out the lack of emphasis on Kannada in Kerala’s Kannada schools. The bill, if enacted, will treat hate speech as a serious offense, with provisions for imprisonment and fines to deter such acts.
