6.8.9.5. Hate Speech

Hate speech poses complex challenge to freedom of speech and expression. However, the question is what should be considered as a hate speech without curbing the freedom of speech and expression. In this regard, Law Commission has defined it as “incitement to hatred primarily against a group of persons defined in terms of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religious belief and the like”. Thus, “hate speech is any word written or spoken, signs, visible representations within the hearing or sight of a person with the intention to cause fear or alarm, or incitement to violence.”

T.K. Viswanathan committee, constituted by the Centre, has recommended introducing stringent provisions for hate speech.