Archive · 1 Feb 2026
Karnataka Hate Speech Bill Reserved for Presidential Assent
The Governor of Karnataka has sent a new law about hate speech to the President of India for approval.
This law is meant to stop hate speech and crimes in the state.
It defines hate speech as anything that hurts or causes trouble for people based on things like their religion, race, or gender.
The law also says that leaders of groups can be punished if hate speech happens at their events.
The Governor has concerns about the law, such as it being too vague and possibly being used in unfair ways.
He also thinks the law might go against some parts of the Indian Constitution.
Many people have written to the Governor saying they don't like the law because they think it could be misused.
Karnataka Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot reserved the Hate Speech and Hate Crimes (Prevention) Bill, 2025 for Presidential Assent.
The Bill defines hate speech as any expression causing injury or disharmony based on various factors like religion, race, and gender.
The Bill introduces organizational liability, making leaders accountable for hate speech at their events.
The Governor raised concerns about the Bill's vague definitions, potential misuse, and lack of public consultation.
The Bill proposes up to 7 years imprisonment and fines up to Rs 1 lakh for repeat offences.
- Who
- Karnataka Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot
- What
- Reserved the Karnataka Hate Speech and Hate Crimes (Prevention) Bill, 2025 for Presidential Assent
- When
- After the Bill was passed in the winter session of the state legislature in December 2024
- Where
- Karnataka, India
- Why
- Due to significant constitutional, legal, and procedural concerns
- Bill Name
- Karnataka Hate Speech and Hate Crimes (Prevention) Bill, 2025
- Governor's Action
- Reserved for Presidential Assent
- Constitutional Articles Cited
- 200, 201, 254
- Definition of Hate Speech
- Any expression causing injury or disharmony based on religion, race, caste, gender, sexual orientation, place of birth, or disability
- Punishment for First Offence
- Up to 7 years imprisonment and Rs 50,000 fine
- Punishment for Repeat Offence
- Up to 7 years imprisonment and Rs 1 lakh fine
- Organizational Liability
- Leaders of organizations may be punished for offences committed under their banner
- Concerns Raised
- Misuse, vague definitions, lack of public consultation, potential constitutional violations