
Aljazeera.Net: Dissent threatens sect's return
[Aum Shinrikyo], which released Sarin gas into Tokyo's underground system and killed 12 people in 1995, is trying to give itself a makeover in the hope of attracting new members. But hardline elements within the sect oppose abandoning the core teachings upon which the group was founded..."It is hard to believe, but people are still joining the cult," said Susumu Shimazono, a professor of religion at Tokyo University...According to Yoshifu Arita, an analyst who is keeping a close watch on the sect's activities, its membership presently stands at around 1600 people, 80% of whom are hardliners...more...