Shabbir Ali Backs Telangana Hate Speech Law
Hyderabad: Telangana government advisor Mohammed Ali Shabbir on Monday welcomed Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy’s announcement to introduce a Telangana hate speech law. He described the move as essential to protect constitutional values and maintain communal harmony.
In a media statement, Shabbir Ali said the proposed law would balance free expression with public responsibility. He noted that Article 19(1)(a) guarantees freedom of speech, while Article 19(2) permits reasonable restrictions to protect public order, morality, and national integrity.
Telangana hate speech law aims to balance rights and public order
Shabbir Ali warned that the misuse of religion and provocative language now threatens social cohesion. He said the State needs a clear legal framework to prevent targeted attacks that incite unrest and division.
He referred to Articles 25 to 28, which protect religious freedom and dignity. Insults to religious beliefs, he said, violate these safeguards. He added that the proposed law would also reinforce Article 51A, which calls on citizens to promote harmony and mutual respect.
The advisor said Telangana has already taken administrative steps to counter hate-driven incidents. However, he stressed that legislation would give these efforts a stronger legal base.
Shabbir Ali added that the law would draw from legal precedents, including models used in Karnataka, while reflecting Telangana’s social realities. He recalled the Chief Minister’s assurance that the law would not curb dissent or criticism. Instead, it would target deliberate incitement and hate speech.
Responding to criticism from political opponents, Shabbir Ali said debates and safeguards should address concerns over misuse. He argued that rejecting regulation altogether would weaken protections. He added that the law would reassure vulnerable communities and boost confidence in inclusive governance.
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