BJP MP Basavaraj Bommai says the definition of hate speech under the proposed Bill is excessively broad, giving the State government sweeping powers to target individuals arbitrarily.
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BJP MP Basavaraj Bommai has strongly criticised the State government’s proposed legislation to curb hate speech describing it as a “draconian law” that poses a serious threat to freedom of expression.
Addressing a press conference in Kalaburagi on Tuesday, Mr. Bommai said that the definition of hate speech under the proposed Bill is excessively broad, giving the government sweeping powers to target individuals arbitrarily.
This law can be misused. It is an attempt to suppress dissent and curb free speech, he said.
Pointing out that provisions to deal with hate speech already exist under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Mr. Bommai questioned the need for another piece of legislation and said that the move is a conspiracy to imprison those who question the failures of the State government and those who fight corruption.
Responding to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s observation that only those indulging in hate speech will have reason to fear the law, Mr. Bommai said that the scope for misuse depends on how the law is implemented.
He stated that the intent behind such legislation and the authority enforcing it are important considerations.
He said that the BJP will oppose the Bill and party leaders will submit a representation to the Governor and also launch a legal fight against this piece of legislation, if required.
Accusing the Congress-led State government of failing on all fronts, Mr. Bommai said that the State’s finances are in disarray. He said that there is corruption from the grassroots to the top brass in governance in the State.
Commenting on the ongoing leadership tussle within the Congress, Mr. Bommai said that the party’s high command is no longer a unified authority. He said that the Congress high command has weakened and that it is treating Karnataka as its “ATM”.
Referring to contradictory statements by AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge on whether the issue will be resolved by the high command or at the State level, Mr. Bommai said that the Congress high command itself is responsible for the confusion in the party.
On speculation about a change in the BJP State leadership, Mr. Bommai said that there is no internal discord in the party State unit and all leaders are working unitedly.
Published – December 23, 2025 09:14 pm IST
