J.K. Rowling will not face legal action under Scotland’s new hate crime law despite challenging it on social media by stating that several transgender women were men, Reuters reports.
The author’s comments, made on the day the law came into effect, sparked controversy and complaints to the police. However, authorities concluded that her remarks did not constitute a criminal offense. The hate crime law aims to protect people from hatred based on various characteristics, including transgender identity. Scotland’s First Minister Humza Yousaf emphasized that the law aims to combat threats and abuse intending to incite hatred, not legitimate expression of opinion.
Rowling’s comments tested the law’s boundaries, leading to discussions over freedom of speech and transgender rights. Rowling’s stance was supported by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who criticized the law, emphasizing the importance of free speech.
