Karnataka to introduce law against hate speech, says Home Minister

Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara announced that the State will introduce a new law to curb hate speech and communal provocation. A special task force and CCTV network will strengthen monitoring in sensitive districts, especially in the coastal belt

Bengaluru: Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara on Thursday announced that the State government will soon introduce a new law targeting individuals who deliver hate speeches that incite communal disharmony and provoke violence.

Addressing the media, Parameshwara expressed concern over the rising number of incidents in recent years that have disturbed communal harmony, particularly in the coastal belt.

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“In the coastal region, communal peace has been repeatedly disrupted in recent years, leading to incidents of murder and violence. To curb such activities, a special task force has been constituted. Unnecessary and provocative posts on social media are also triggering violence. Hence, in the coming days, a new law will be implemented against those who make hate speeches,” he said.

The minister revealed that on June 11 this year, a special task force was formed to control communal violence in Dakshina Kannada, Shivamogga, and Udupi districts. The force monitors hate speech and communal content on social media, keeping a close watch on individuals spreading inflammatory material. Officers in the unit have been trained in intelligence gathering and the use of technology to identify and prevent possible unrest.

“Excluding Bengaluru, Mangaluru alone contributes six per cent to the State’s GDP. Therefore, maintaining communal peace is critical in this region. Since the formation of the task force, no incidents threatening communal harmony have occurred,” Parameshwara said.

In a further step to strengthen monitoring, the government plans to install 601 CCTV cameras across 207 locations in Udupi district. The move aims to keep constant surveillance over sensitive and high-risk areas to prevent criminal and communal activities.

Parameshwara reiterated the State’s commitment to preserving communal harmony, warning that strict legal action will be taken against those attempting to disturb peace through hate speech or online provocation.