Karnataka Tables Hate Speech Bill: 10-Year Jail, Online Content Powers

• Karnataka tabled the Hate Speech and Hate Crimes (Prevention) Bill on December 10.
• The bill aims to curb hate speech, penalize offenders, and provide victim compensation across physical and electronic domains.
• It defines "hate speech" broadly, covering expressions causing disharmony based on various identity markers.
• Penalties include imprisonment up to 7 years for first offenses and up to 10 years for repeat offenses, with fines.
• The bill grants officials powers to take preventive action and order the removal or blocking of online hate content.

Why It Matters: Karnataka's new bill introduces severe penalties and online control for hate speech.