Source link : https://london-news.net/free-speech-triumph-man-acquitted-for-quran-burning-amidst-controversy-and-violent-backlash/
A man who received a fine for setting fire to a copy of the Quran outside the Turkish consulate in London has successfully appealed his conviction.
Hamit Coskun, aged 51, yelled derogatory remarks about Islam while brandishing the burning book in Rutland Gardens, Knightsbridge, on February 13.
In June, he was convicted at Westminster Magistrates’ Court for a public order offense aggravated by religion and was penalized £240.
During the appeal at Southwark Crown Court on Friday, Mr. Justice Bennathan acknowledged that while the act of burning a Quran might be deeply distressing to many Muslims, the principle of freedom of expression encompasses the ability to express views that may offend, shock, or disturb others.
Originally from Turkey, Mr. Coskun stated that he came to the UK to freely discuss the threats posed by radical Islam, expressing his relief at the ruling which allows him to continue educating the British populace about his beliefs, despite various troubling trends.
During the protest, an individual from a nearby building attacked Mr. Coskun with a substantial knife, later telling authorities he was defending his faith. The assailant, Moussa Kadri, 59, received a suspended prison sentence last month.
The appeal hearing saw attendance from shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick, who commented that, although he disagreed with Mr. Coskun’s actions, he did not view them as criminal.
Advocates asserted that Mr. Coskun’s conviction resembled the…
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Publish date : 2025-10-10 13:29:00
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