Hyderabad, March 30 (RAHNUMA): The Telangana Legislative Assembly has referred the Telangana Hate Speech and Hate Crimes (Prevention) Bill, 2026 to a Select Committee, a move hailed by government advisor Mohammed Ali Shabbir as a “bold and decisive step”.
The Bill, introduced by Legislative Affairs Minister D Sridhar Babu on behalf of the Chief Minister, proposes a comprehensive legal framework to deal with hate speech and hate crimes. It provides for imprisonment of not less than one year, extendable up to seven years, along with a fine of Rs 50,000, with harsher punishment for repeat offenders. All offences under the proposed law are non-bailable.
Shabbir Ali said the legislation aims to address the growing threat of hate speech and protect social harmony, while respecting constitutional freedoms under Article 19. He emphasized that the law is intended to prevent incitement and hatred, not suppress dissent. He said that while freedom of speech is a fundamental right under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution, it is subject to reasonable restrictions under Article 19(2) in the interest of public order, morality and the integrity of the nation. He observed that the growing misuse of religion and identity-based narratives in public discourse has created an urgent need for clear legal intervention.
Dismissing opposition concerns, he said safeguards and detailed scrutiny by the Select Committee would ensure a balanced and constitutionally sound law.
The Bill is expected to undergo extensive deliberations before being finalized, marking a significant step in strengthening legal measures against hate-driven offences in the state. Expressing confidence in the legislative process, Shabbir Ali said the Assembly and the Select Committee would deliver a balanced and effective law that reflects Telangana’s commitment to secularism, equality and fraternity.
