Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has declared his government's intention to introduce stringent legislation aimed at punishing individuals who insult religions. The announcement was made during a pre-Christmas celebration event in Hyderabad on Saturday, December 20, 2025.
A Firm Stand Against Religious Hatred
Addressing a gathering that included Christians from various denominations at the L B Stadium, CM Reddy stated that a Bill would soon be tabled in the state Assembly. The proposed law seeks to "stamp out religious hatred and punish those who insult other religions." He emphasized that everyone should respect faiths other than their own.
Revanth Reddy further clarified that the Congress-led government would not only enact a new law but also amend existing acts to ensure strict penalties for those who abuse other religions. He asserted that his administration has already taken action against elements spreading religious hatred and attacks.
Commitment to Equality and Welfare
The Chief Minister reiterated his government's core principle of providing equal respect to all religions. He specifically highlighted the rights of minority communities, stating, "Minorities deserve to avail all welfare scheme benefits and indeed it is their right."
During his speech, Reddy also addressed practical concerns of the Christian and Muslim communities, assuring that pending "graveyard constraints" in Hyderabad, where space for burials as per religious mandates is scarce, would be resolved soon.
Context and Christmas Greetings
This significant policy announcement comes a few weeks after the Chief Minister faced controversy for his remarks on Hindu gods during a Congress executive meeting in Hyderabad. His latest statements at the Christmas event appear to reinforce a message of interfaith harmony.
Extending Christmas greetings, Reddy spoke about the teachings of Jesus Christ, highlighting the propagation of love, peace, and service to humanity. He called December a 'miracle month' for Telangana, noting that Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi, who "granted separate statehood to Telangana in this month," was also born in December.
Praising the historical role of Christian missionaries in providing education and medical care to the poor, Reddy said his government is working on the inspiration of Christ's teachings, implementing welfare schemes against all odds. He concluded by affirming the state's commitment to its "Telangana Rising 2047" vision, aiming to ensure all communities benefit from the goal of a $3 trillion economy for the state.
The event was attended by cabinet minister and former cricketer Mohammad Azharuddin, who joined the CM in cutting a Christmas cake, symbolizing the festive spirit.
