Belagavi, Dec. 18 -- The Karnataka Assembly on Thursday passed a hate speech bill, sparking controversy with the BJP opposition.

AS Ponnanna, the state's CM legal advisor, criticised the BJP's stance, questioning its intentions and asking whether it wanted to promote hate speech.

Speaking to ANI, Ponnanna urged the assembly to take pride in its move, emphasising the bill's importance and noting that it aims to curb divisive rhetoric and promote social harmony. The ruling Congress party hailed it as a significant step.

He said that the BJP, however, opposes it, allegedly because it targets them.

"The BJP members are opposing the hate speech bill without a reason. Do they want to propagate hate speech? Do they want to indulge in hate sp...