Anger as Police Ban Placards Branding Scientology A Cult

Police accused of trampling on basic rights

By Mark Howarth

Civil liberties campaigners speak out

Police in Glasgow have come under fire for their decision to ban placards branding Scientology as a cult during a recent protest. The move has sparked outrage among civil liberties campaigners, who argue that it sets a dangerous precedent for the suppression of free speech. This incident follows a similar one in London, where a youth was prosecuted for refusing to remove a sign stating "Scientology is not a religion, it is a dangerous cult."

"Preferential treatment" claims

Human rights lawyer John Scott has criticized the police intervention, suggesting that the church is receiving preferential treatment due to its influential members and wealthy status. Scott warns that this incident sets a dangerous precedent and hopes that legal action will not be needed for the police to acknowledge the right to free speech.

Protest organized by Anonymous

The demonstration against Scientology in Glasgow was organized by Anonymous, an anti-Scientology group. Anonymous members protest at locations where the church holds public sessions. The group has expressed fury over the ban, stating that they will continue to fight for their right to use the word "cult" in their protests.

Police justify their decision

Strathclyde Police admitted to banning the word "cult" after receiving a complaint. They argue that while the word itself is not a breach of the peace, it was exacerbating the situation and needed to be removed. The police state that a balance must be struck between the right to assemble and hold a meeting and other individuals' rights to go about their business without obstruction or hindrance.

Anonymous retrieves banners

Despite the ban, Anonymous has managed to recover the banned banners and has vowed to continue using the word "cult" in their protests. The group believes that the police interpretation of "breach of peace" is open to individual interpretation and is determined to exercise their right to free speech.

Church representatives unavailable for comment

Despite repeated attempts to reach out for comment, no representatives from the Church of Scientology were available to provide their perspective on the matter.