Home Minister directs police to combat hate speech

Home Minister V. Anitha has asked the police to safeguard the freedom of expression, democratic discussions and lawful criticisms, which are guaranteed by the Constitution.

Reviewing the law and order situation with the police virtually on Monday, the Home Minister directed the police to act tough against those who spread unlawful and hate content.

Ms. Anitha said that nearly 9,000 women and girls have been traced under ‘Operation Trace’ in the State. The investigation rate for sexual offences is about 90%, and through the Sahayog portal, 12,653 illegal URL links have been removed, she said.

Meanwhile, police said that the PD Act had been invoked against 131 accused under PIT NDPS Act, and about 30,000 acres had been shifted to take up alternative crops.

The Home Minister also reviewed the performance of EAGLE and Sakthi teams with the officers concerned.