Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], December 21 : BJP leader Prakash Reddy, reacting to the potential introduction of the Hate Speech Bill by Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, alleged that the bill is aimed at protecting a single community and expressed concern that, under the influence of AIMIM, it could be misused by the system.
Speaking to ANI, Reddy urged utmost caution when introducing the bill in the assembly to ensure it effectively addresses hate speech and prevents misuse.
"The Chief Minister of Telangana, Revanth Reddy, yesterday declared that he is going to bring the bill to curbing the hate speech...In the name of hate speech, he wants to protect one community...Under the influence of AIMIM, this bill may be misused by the system...I demand that maximum care be taken while introducing the bill in the assembly to protect and curb hate speech," said Reddy.
Earlier, Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy announced that the Telangana State Government would introduce a new act in the Assembly to combat religious hatred and punish those who insult other religions.
According to the official press release, the existing laws would also be amended to ensure stringent punishment for offenders who abuse other religions
Participating in the Christmas celebrations at LB Stadium ( Lal Bahadur Shastri Stadium) on Saturday, the Chief Minister emphasised that everyone should respect other religions while practising their own faith. The government already suppressed those who incite religious hatred and attacks. " We will bring a law in the Legislative Assembly to punish those who insult other religions. We will also amend the existing acts to punish those who abuse other faiths", he said.
CM Revanth Reddy affirmed his government will provide equal respect to all religions. He also said that minorities deserve access to all welfare scheme benefits and that it is their right.