In a recent social media post, famed author J.K. Rowling ignited further controversy by misgendering transgender women and implying that they have a propensity for sexual predation. Despite receiving complaints, the Scottish police announced on Tuesday that they would not be investigating Rowling's comments as a crime under Scotland's new Hate Crime and Public Order Act.

The new legislation criminalizes "stirring up hatred" against individuals based on their race, religion, disability, sexuality, or gender identity. However, the police spokesperson stated that Rowling's comments were not deemed criminal, and therefore, no further action would be taken.

Rowling, known for her "Harry Potter" series, expressed concerns about the Scottish Hate Crime Act, asserting that it prioritizes the feelings of men identifying as women over the rights and freedoms of cisgender women and girls. She criticized the potential abuse of the legislation by activists aiming to silence those speaking out against the elimination of women's single-sex spaces, the inclusion of males in female sports, and the unfairness of opportunities being taken by trans-identified men.

In an apparent test of the new measure, Rowling shared images of ten transgender women, including a convicted rapist and a sexual offender, and referred to them all as men. She expressed a willingness to face arrest if her statements were found to be offensive under the terms of the new act.

Rowling further doubled down on her criticisms of the law on Tuesday, applauding the police's decision not to prosecute her. She hoped the announcement would reassure Scottish women who wish to speak up for biological sex's reality and significance, emphasizing the need for equal treatment under the law.

However, Rowling has long been the subject of criticism regarding her views on transgender people. She has questioned whether the increase in transgender identification among young people is a result of a "contagion" amplified by social media. The author has also argued that trans women pose a threat of sexual violence towards cisgender women in spaces such as restrooms, changing rooms, and prisons.

Britain's first trans broadcaster, India Willoughby, who was included in the images shared by Rowling, condemned the author and called for the prosecution and protection of the trans community. Willoughby likened Rowling's actions to publishing a list of sex offenders, including innocent people, and exposing it to millions of followers.

The controversy surrounding Rowling's comments has attracted attention from political figures as well. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, while declining to comment specifically on Rowling's remarks, criticized the new Scottish law as a violation of free speech. He asserted that it is inappropriate to criminalize statements about biological sex that are based on common sense.

It should be noted that Sunak himself has faced criticism for his comments on transgender individuals. In February, he mocked the Labour Party's stance on the definition of a woman, which coincided with the presence of the mother of a murdered trans teenager in Parliament at the time.

The clash of opinions and concerns surrounding transgender issues continues to spark debates about freedom of speech, gender identity, and the boundaries of discrimination laws in various countries. As the conversation evolves, it remains to be seen how societies and their legal systems will navigate these sensitive topics.