Thu Mar 13 08:56:21 UTC 2025: ## Karnataka Cracks Down on Social Media Hate Speech
**Bengaluru, March 13, 2025** – The Karnataka government has filed over 2,000 cases against individuals and organizations spreading lies and communal hatred on social media since 2023. This includes 676 cases initiated by the police on their own accord (suo moto).
Home Minister G. Parameshwar revealed these figures in the Legislative Council today, responding to a question from BJP member K.S. Naveen. The Minister detailed the government’s multi-pronged approach to combat social media misuse, citing the establishment of social media monitoring cells in every police station, the use of fact-checking apps, and dedicated desks in each station to monitor online activity.
According to the data presented, the police filed 238 suo moto cases in 2023, 373 in 2024, and 65 so far in 2025. Cases based on complaints received totaled 640 in 2023, 618 in 2024, and 85 in 2025.
Minister Parameshwar also highlighted the creation of a new, specialized cybercrime unit headed by a Director General of Police (DGP), a first in India. This unit will also tackle narcotics and economic offences. He noted that the police already handle an average of 22,000 cases annually, a number that is steadily increasing. The government’s actions underscore its commitment to curbing the spread of misinformation and hate speech online.
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