The government has described a new law as an important step to strengthen public safety. However, civil rights organisations and legal experts have raised serious concerns about some of its provisions. According to the government, attacks on religious places have increased in recent years. It also claims that hate speech and incidents targeting different communities have become more common.
To address these issues and improve protection for vulnerable groups, the government has introduced this new legislation.
Stricter Punishment for Hate Crimes
Under the new law, crimes motivated by hatred against a person’s religion, caste, race, gender, or identity will be treated as more serious offences. If investigators find that hatred played a role in the crime, offenders could face tougher penalties and longer prison sentences.
Greater Protection for Religious and Community Sites
The law provides stronger protection for places such as mosques, temples, churches, schools, and community centres.
Acts such as threatening people, preventing them from entering these places, or attempting to damage them will now be considered criminal offences.
Ban on Hate-Related Symbols
The legislation also targets symbols, flags, or signs linked to hatred or terrorism.
Displaying such symbols could become a criminal offence if authorities determine that they were used to spread hatred or intimidate others.
Religious Defence No Longer Allowed
One of the most controversial parts of the law removes a defence that some accused individuals previously used.
In the past, people could argue that their statements or actions were based on religious beliefs or religious texts and should therefore be protected. The new law removes this legal defence. This provision has become the subject of intense public debate.
Concerns Raised by Rights Groups
More than 60 human rights organisations have expressed concerns that some sections of the law are not clearly defined.
Critics argue that unclear wording could affect peaceful protests and may lead to legitimate religious expressions being wrongly treated as criminal offences. They have called for clearer guidelines to prevent misuse of the law.
Government Defends the Measure
The government insists that the legislation is necessary to protect people and ensure the safety of religious sites and communities. Officials say the new rules will give police stronger legal powers to respond to hate crimes and threats more effectively.
The legislation will come into full force on 18 July 2026. From that date, police and courts will be able to take action under the new provisions. Its impact will become clearer in the coming months as authorities begin enforcing the law.
First published on: Jun 23, 2026 12:26 PM IST
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