New Delhi, April 2 -- Controversial new laws in Scotland, which make stirring up hatred against a number of groups including transgender people an offence, were criticised after coming into force Monday. The Hate Crime and Public Order (Scotland) Act -- passed by Scottish lawmakers in 2021 but only now being rolled out -- consolidates existing hate crime legislation while creating the new offence. Scotland's devolved government has said it is a response to the recommendations of an independent review into hate crime laws and ensures such protections "are fit for the 21st century". Protected characteristics under the new laws include age, disability, race, religion and sexual orientation, as well as gender identity. But UK Prime Minister Ris...