Telangana to Introduce Anti-Hate Speech Bill, Announces CM Revanth Reddy
Mumbai: Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Saturday announced that the state government will soon introduce a Bill against hate speech, reinforcing its commitment to protecting religious freedom and ensuring equal rights for all communities.
The announcement was made during Christmas celebrations organised by the Telangana government in Hyderabad, according to PTI. The proposed legislation will be introduced during the budget session of the Telangana Assembly.
‘Liberty of Religion and Equal Rights for All’
Speaking at the event, CM Revanth Reddy said the government would guarantee the liberty to practise one’s religion and safeguard the rights of every faith through the new law.
“We will soon bring in legislation on hate speech in the Assembly. The Telangana government will ensure liberty to follow one’s religion and equal rights for every religion by bringing that legislation in the budget session,” he said.
The move comes shortly after Karnataka, another Congress-ruled state, became the first in the country to pass a dedicated anti-hate speech and hate crimes law.
Welfare of Minorities Is a Right, Not Charity: CM
Revanth Reddy underlined that welfare and development initiatives for religious minorities are a constitutional right, not an act of benevolence.
“The development and welfare provided to Christians, Muslims or any other minorities is not anyone’s mercy but their right. We are here to protect your rights. If your rights are hurt anywhere, our government is ready to correct it,” he said.
Government to Address Burial Ground Shortage
The Chief Minister also acknowledged concerns raised by the Christian community regarding the shortage of burial grounds. He assured that the state government would take steps to allocate land for graveyards for Christians and Muslims, even if such locations are slightly away from villages or towns.
Karnataka Sets Precedent With Anti-Hate Speech Law
The Telangana government’s announcement follows the passage of the Hate Speech and Hate Crimes (Prevention) Bill in Karnataka. The Siddaramaiah-led government cleared the Bill in the cabinet on December 4 and passed it in the Assembly on December 18.
The Karnataka law provides for penalties including fines up to ₹1 lakh and imprisonment of up to seven years for hate speech and hate crimes, setting a precedent that Telangana appears poised to follow.
Focus on Social Harmony and Constitutional Values
With the proposed legislation, Telangana aims to strengthen social harmony, prevent divisive rhetoric, and uphold constitutional guarantees of equality and religious freedom. Further details of the Bill are expected once it is tabled in the Assembly.
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