Karnataka Hate Speech Bill 2025: Up to 10 Yrs Jail, 100,000 Rupee Fine

• Karnataka introduced the 'Hate Speech and Hate Crime (Prevention) Bill 2025', proposing up to 10 years imprisonment and a ₹1 lakh fine for offenders.
• The bill aims to prevent disharmony and hate speech, empowering authorities to direct social media platforms to block or remove controversial content.
• Hate speech will be a cognizable, non-bailable offense, with responsible individuals in organizations held accountable.
• Exemptions include publications in public interest (science, art, education), good faith acts by government employees, and genuine religious/cultural material.

Why It Matters: Karnataka's new bill proposes strict penalties for hate speech, impacting public discourse.