Hate Speech Bill Panel Holds First Meeting

The Select Committee on the Telangana Hate Speech and Hate Crimes Bill, 2026 held its first meeting at the Assembly Speaker’s office under the chairmanship of Minister Ponnam Prabhakar. Assembly Speaker Gaddam Prasad Kumar and committee members participated in the meeting, where discussions focused on examining the proposed legislation and preparing a report before the conclusion of the Assembly’s monsoon session.

Speaking to the media after the meeting, Minister Ponnam Prabhakar said the committee would seek the opinions of MLAs and MLCs before finalising its recommendations. He clarified that the bill would not restrict freedom of expression but would aim to prevent hate speech based on caste, religion, region, gender, or other forms of discrimination. The committee also resolved to encourage constructive discussions in the legislature and submit a report that could serve as a model for future generations.