Karnataka’ hate speech law comes at a time when governments the world over are grappling with aggressive campaigns against individuals or groups, amplified quickly by social media and sometimes provoking violence.

The idea of stronger laws tailored to counter the more serious forms of hate speech that result in violence is being actively discussed in Australia and Europe, for instance, while the UK has been using higher sentences as a deterrent. Australia has taken the lead in reframing its law on hate speech after the mass shooting at a Jewish celebration on Sydney’s Bondi Beach that killed 15 people.

Apparently, Karnataka’s bill, which awaits the framing of rules, draws upon international examples to lay down a list of offences which will attract........

© Free Press Journal