Telangana Government to Introduce Separate Hate Speech Legislation
In a significant move to curb divisive rhetoric, Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy declared on Thursday that the state government will introduce separate legislation targeting hate speech during the upcoming assembly budget session. The announcement underscores a firm commitment to preventing the targeting of minority communities and fostering social cohesion.
Modeled After Karnataka's Hate Speech Bill
Addressing the Jamiat Ulama Telangana consultative meeting in Shamshabad, the Chief Minister revealed that the proposed law will be modeled on the lines of the Karnataka government's Hate Speech and Hate Crime (Prevention) Bill, 2025. He emphasized that such a legal framework is essential to ensure social harmony and protect vulnerable communities from discriminatory speech and actions.
Revanth Reddy reiterated the Congress government's top priority towards minorities, recalling that it was the Congress, under former Chief Minister YS Rajasekhara Reddy, which introduced 4% reservations for Muslim minorities. This matter is currently pending before the Supreme Court, and the Chief Minister assured that the state government would provide necessary details to the apex court as required.
Political Context and BJP Allegations
The Chief Minister's remarks came just a day after BJP national president Nitin Nabin accused the Congress government of appeasing minorities while neglecting the interests of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Backward Classes. At a meeting in Mahbubnagar on Wednesday, Nabin alleged that the Revanth government had cut funds meant for the welfare of these groups.
The BJP has charged the state government with pursuing selective policies for political gain, an allegation that the Congress has firmly rejected. This exchange sets the stage for a sharp political confrontation ahead of the upcoming municipal elections, highlighting the contentious nature of minority-focused policies in Telangana.
CM Seeks Muslim Support for Municipal Elections
Referring to the municipal elections scheduled for February 11, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy actively sought the support of Muslim minorities. He stated that it is their responsibility to ensure the victory of Congress candidates, noting that the party came to power in Telangana with the backing of minority communities.
"The Congress made eight minority leaders chairmen of state corporations and even appointed Mohammed Azaharuddin as a minister, while also providing tickets to Muslim minorities," the CM highlighted. He stressed that development hinges on unity among communities and robust law and order, asserting that investments will flow into the state only when peace prevails and all religions and societal sections progress together.
This comprehensive approach aims to balance legal measures with political outreach, positioning the Congress government as a protector of minority rights while navigating the complex landscape of state politics.
