Activists file case against BJP leaders for hate speech, MCC violation

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: A day after the protest organised by the BJP leaders in Nagarathpete, a complaint was filed against Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya for his alleged hate speech against the Muslim community.

Activists from the 'Hate Speech Beda (Campaign Against Hate Speech)' met with election officials and police authorities in Bengaluru on Wednesday seeking action against the BJP leader and candidate for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

The delegation first met with the District Election Officer and the Chief Election Commissioner to lodge a complaint against Tejasvi Surya for purported violations of various legal provisions, including Section 123(a) of the Representation of People Act, the Model Code of Conduct, and sections 153(a), 295(a), and 505(2) of the Indian Penal Code.

Additionally, they approached the Halasuru Gate Police to file complaints against Shobha Karandlaje, PC Mohan, and others for allegedly engaging in hate speech and conducting protests at unauthorized locations.

Hate Speech Beda’s complaint also raised concerns about Tejasvi’s conduct while the investigation into the assault is underway, alleging that he is conducting a "parallel trial" and obstructing the investigation.

They also provided video evidence of Surya's statements and called for immediate prosecution.

Surya's remarks, which garnered significant online traction, accused the Congress party of fostering anti-Hindu sentiments and called for action against individuals involved in an alleged assault on a Hindu shopkeeper.

The Campaign Against Hate Speech asserted that Surya's statements, viewed by millions, have the potential to impact communal harmony and influence voters during the elections.

They assert that Surya's remarks amount to hate speech and a call to violence against the Muslim community.

The delegation contended that Surya's actions violate various legal provisions, including the MCC, which prohibits activities that exacerbate existing differences or create mutual hatred between different religious or linguistic groups.