Hate Speech Bill Sparks Chaos In Karnataka Assembly, Opposition Cries Free Speech Attack

Chaos erupted in the Karnataka assembly as the government passed the controversial Hate Speech and Hate Crimes Prevention Bill, 2025, amid fierce resistance from the opposition. The new law grants the state significant power to act against speech, written material, and digital content deemed to cause social disharmony, with penalties including up to seven years in jail and fines up to one lakh rupees. Defending the legislation, Karnataka's Home Minister stated, 'You can't hate people. That is why we have brought a law,' arguing it was necessary due to a rise in divisive statements leading to violence. The bill allows authorities to block online content while exempting artistic and academic works. Opposition legislators accused the government of throttling free speech and undermining constitutional rights, setting the stage for future legal and public battles over the law's implications.