Hate speech: Book suo motu cases, directs CM

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has directed the State police to take up suo motu cases against those who make provocative statements and indulge in hate speech that can breach peace in society.

“Do not wait for complaints, take up suo motu cases in such instances and act against them, whoever it may be. If complaints are filed regarding instances of hate speech, register FIRs immediately,” he said, speaking at the annual IPS officers’ meeting here on Friday.

“If you do not act, we will be forced to act against you,” he warned senior police officials, according to a statement from the Chief Minister’s Office said.

Further referring to the communal disturbances and string of murders in Dakshina Kannada district, he sought to know why such incidents were happening only in the district and not elsewhere.

Dwelling on the formation of the Special Action Force recently, he directed police officials to identify those causing disturbance in the coastal areas and act against them, and ensure peace in the region.