The Karnataka Hate Speech and Hate Crimes (Prevention) Bill, 2025, was passed by the Karnataka Legislative Council on Friday after more than six hours of intense debate and protests by the BJP. The debate began at 10:40 a.m., with Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara explaining the purpose of the bill. He quoted the Supreme Court’s view in Vishal Tiwari vs Union of India, saying, “Hate speech cannot be tolerated as it leads to loss of dignity and self-worth of the targeted group members, contributes to disharmony amongst groups, and erodes tolerance and open-mindedness.” Dr. Parameshwara also gave data showing increased hate speech cases to stress the law’s necessity. During the debate, 23 members shared their views. The ruling party welcomed the bill and made suggestions. The BJP opposed it, demanding the bill be withdrawn or sent to the House committee for review. The debate turned heated when BJP member C.T. Ravi made religious references involving Mahatma Gandhi and Basavanna. This upset ruling party members and led to a noisy five-minute adjournment. After resuming, more members called the bill “draconian” and unconstitutional, fearing it could lead to a “police raj.” The ruling party defended the bill’s need. Tensions rose again when Minister Priyank Kharge’s comment on Union Home Minister Amit Shah sparked outrage among Opposition members, who demanded the comment’s removal and an apology. They rushed to the Well singing slogans. Despite the uproar, the house passed the bill. Some Opposition members protested by tearing copies of the bill and throwing them in the air. The bill had already been adopted by the Legislative Assembly earlier.