SC asks states to register hate speech cases even if no complaint is made

Mangalore Today News Network

New Delhi, April 28, 2023: Terming hate speech a serious offence capable of affecting the secular fabric of the country, the Supreme Court on Friday extended the scope of its 2022 order and directed all states and Union territories to register hate speech cases even if no complaint is made.

 

The Supreme Court also warned that delay in registering hate speech cases would be treated as contempt of court.

"Irrespective of the caste, community, religion of the maker of the speech, no one can be allowed to break the law," the court said.

In October 2022, the Supreme Court directed Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand governments to take suo moto action against offenders without looking into religion while expressing concern over hate speeches in the country. Today, the top court extended the scope of its 2022 order.

The case will be next heard on May 12.