NEW DELHI: Union Minister for Food, Public Distribution and Consumer Affairs Pralhad Joshi, on Friday, has criticised the Karnataka government's proposed legislation prescribing a 10-year jail term for hate speech, saying that it reflects the Congress' cruel tradition.
Speaking to reporters in Delhi on Friday, Union Minister Joshi said the legislation creates an atmosphere of fear among the public and makes it clear that it has been introduced with the malicious intent of political control.
"By doing so, the Congress-led state government is snatching away everyone's freedom of speech. This bill showcases the Congress party's cruel legacy and stands as a mirror to the government's misgovernance, " he alleged.
He condemned the introduction of the "Karnataka Hate Speech and Hate Crimes (Prevention) Bill", questioning whether imposing a 10-year jail term for so-called "hate speech" is aimed at silencing voices against the state government's misrule and suppressing public opinion.
The Congress-led state government drafted the Bill after a series of revenge killings in Mangaluru drew national concern. A special force has been formed to prevent further violence, and dedicated units are tracking social media activity that could lead to unrest.
Under the Bill, those convicted of a hate crime may face imprisonment of up to three years, or a fine of up to Rs 5, 000, or both.The offence is described as non-cognisable and non-bailable, to be tried by a First Class Magistrate.
For hate speech, the Bill prescribes a similar punishment of imprisonment of up to three years or a fine of up to Rs 5, 000, or both. This offence is also non-cognisable and non-bailable. For repeated offences, the Bill proposes punishment of imprisonment up to 10 years.