Strict punishment for online hate speech soon: MP Vikramjit Singh Sahney’s bill gets nod for introduction
Babushahi Bureau
New Delhi, April 11, 2026: Vikramjit Singh Sahney has welcomed the approval granted by the President of India for the introduction of his Private Member Bill — the Online Hate Speech (Prevention) Bill, 2024 — in Parliament, calling it a much-needed step to tackle the growing menace of online hate speech.
The Rajya Sabha MP said the existing legal framework, largely based on the Information Technology Act 2000, is outdated as it was enacted before the rise of social media platforms and is inadequate to deal with the complex nature of digital hate content today.
Expressing concern, Sahney noted that hate speech has become rampant across social media, with individuals posting inflammatory content targeting religions and communities without accountability.
Key Provisions of the Bill
Highlighting the features, Sahney said the proposed legislation aims to introduce:
- Time-bound removal of harmful content
- Stronger accountability for social media platforms
- AI-based monitoring systems
- User verification to prevent anonymous misuse
The Bill also proposes strict penalties, including fines for platforms and punitive action against individuals involved in spreading hate speech, while safeguarding freedom of expression through exemptions for genuine academic, journalistic, and artistic content.