Telangana to table hate speech bill in Budget session

Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy announced that the state government will introduce a Bill on hate speech in the upcoming Budget session of the Assembly. Speaking at Christmas celebrations in Hyderabad, he assured complete religious freedom and pledged strict action against derogatory remarks targeting communities.

Hyderabad: Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Saturday announced that the Telangana government would introduce a Bill on hate speech during the forthcoming Budget session of the Assembly.

He said strict action would be taken against anyone making demeaning remarks against religions or communities, in accordance with the provisions of the proposed legislation. Referring to Karnataka, where the Congress government has already introduced a similar Bill, Revanth Reddy said Telangana would soon follow suit.

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Speaking at Christmas celebrations held at LB Stadium in the city on Saturday, the Chief Minister said the Telangana government would ensure complete freedom for all persons and communities to practice their religion without fear.

Referring to the shortage of burial grounds in several places, particularly for Christians, he said the government was facing constraints in allocating land near villages or habitations.

However, wherever government land was available, even if located away from villages or towns, it would be allotted for burial purposes. The heads of each of the religious communities should arrange ambulances for transport to these spots, he added.