Hyderabad: K. T. Rama Rao on Monday criticised the proposed Telangana hate speech bill, calling it a “draconian tool” that threatens free speech and democratic values. The Telangana hate speech bill, he said, carried vague provisions that could be misused.
The BRS working president warned that terms such as “promoting ill-will” and “distorting harmony” were loosely defined. Therefore, he said, the Telangana hate speech bill could be used against opposition leaders, journalists, and citizens expressing dissent.
He cautioned that subjective interpretation may criminalise legitimate criticism of the government. He also raised concerns about constitutional and civil liberties if the Telangana hate speech bill becomes law.
“While preventing genuine hate speech and maintaining social harmony is an important responsibility of any government, the present framework appears dangerously broad, vague and open to misuse,” he said.
Telangana hate speech bill raises constitutional concerns
Rama Rao cited the Shreya Singhal vs Union of India ruling to support his argument. He said only speech that incites violence can be restricted under constitutional principles.
He stated that the Telangana hate speech bill contradicted established Supreme Court guidelines. According to him, any law exceeding these limits risks being struck down.
“The Supreme Court, in its landmark judgment in Shreya Singhal vs Union of India case, clearly held that only speech directly inciting violence or public disorder can be restricted,” he said.
He added that criticism, satire, or disagreement cannot be punished under the Constitution. Therefore, he warned that provisions in the Telangana hate speech bill may violate Article 19(1)(a).
Telangana hate speech bill provisions draw further criticism
Rama Rao also objected to provisions allowing authorities to define “fake news.” He said such powers could weaken democratic accountability.
Moreover, he warned that strict penalties under the Telangana hate speech bill could deter public discourse. The proposed punishment includes up to seven years’ imprisonment for first-time offenders.
He urged the government to reconsider the legislation. He noted that existing laws already address hate speech and public order without expanding executive powers.