Hate speech bill an attack on freedom of expression: BJP spokesperson Surabhi Hodigere

Hate speech bill an attack on freedom of expression: BJP spokesperson Surabhi Hodigere

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, January 16, 2026: BJP state spokesperson Surabhi Hodigere has alleged that the state government intends to introduce a hate speech bill with the objective of curbing the freedom of expression of the people of the state and creating an atmosphere of fear.

Addressing a press conference at the BJP office in Mangaluru, she said the proposed hate speech bill would deal a serious blow to freedom of expression. She alleged that the bill has been drafted and implemented unilaterally, without adequate thought, consultation, discussion, or expert legal advice.

“Bringing a bill on a serious issue like freedom of expression requires extensive discussion. However, no consultation has been held with anyone in this regard. Hate speech and crime are being treated as one and the same. Even the definition in the bill is flawed. This is an emotionally driven bill, drafted without consulting legal experts,” she remarked, criticizing the government’s approach.

Questioning the necessity of introducing a new bill when the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) already exists, she asked why an additional law was required. She further alleged that the bill contains provisions to allow preventive arrests merely on suspicion of hate speech, which could lead to gross misuse.

Warning that the bill could target electronic media, social media, and various organizations, Hodigere said the legislation appears to be aimed at institutions themselves. “The state has already witnessed the kind of language used by Congress leaders. The words used by Ballari MLA Bharath Shetty are embarrassing even for a woman to hear. However, the government’s hate speech bill will not be applied to Congress leaders. This bill has been brought solely to target the BJP,” she alleged.

BJP district spokespersons Arun Shetty, Madhav More, media convenor Vasant Poojary, and assistant media convenor Hemanth Shetty were present at the press conference.