Karnataka News: Since the Government of Karnataka introduced this Bill, there has been a significant political debate over it. The Government introduced this Bill as part of their continued effort to discourage hate speech and online abuse. The Opposition has accused the Government of selectively enforcing laws in the name of peace and harmony.
Government Says Bill Aims to Protect Peace & Social Harmony
The Government stated that there have been many instances of communal violence in the Karnataka State, and also that people are now using social media to spread misinformation. Therefore, the Government feels that there is a need for stronger laws to be created.
The Karnataka Bill will change the definition of hate speech to a broader definition with increased penalties and will allow Law Enforcement Agencies. The Government indicated that “this is a pro-people and a pro-peace piece of legislation, not a piece of legislation to be used as a political football”.
Opposition Calls It a Tool for Targeting Rivals
Karnataka News: Opposition parties, who represent a variety of regional affiliations in Karnataka, feel that the Bill will provide the Government with far-reaching discretion that may be misused. Some of the more serious concerns surrounding the Bill are:
1. The definitions used appear to be vague enough that individuals may be charged with a crime for voicing their opinions about a political figure, political party or government.
2. It will provide the Police with broad authority that could lead to selective arrests without due process.
3. There is concern that the Bill may inhibit dissent, particularly in the lead-up to elections.
Opposition leaders believe that the designation of “hate speech” will be subjective, whereby the ruling party will use the designation to restrict the vocalisation of opposing political views.
