Legal experts in China are concerned that proposed modifications to a Chinese public security law that would make it illegal to make remarks, wear certain attire, or display symbols that “undermine the spirit” or “harm the feelings” of China could be used arbitrarily.
It may be debatable to forbid negative comments, but it is unclear what China’s “dress spirit” entails. Is it because the Kimono, a traditional and exquisite outfit worn by Japanese ladies, is also targeted by new security regulations in China, that it is gender-specific?
China has published a wide range of suggested revisions to its public security legislation, the first in decades.
What calls for the introduction of new laws, notably in the area of public security? Where and how are China’s civil and individual rights being restricted because the country’s public security is in danger? These kinds of inquiries are made by Chinese civic society.
What new laws are being considered, and from where do they come? According to the legislation, anyone who wear or make others wear apparel and symbols that “undermine the spirit or hurt the feelings of the Chinese nation” may be subject to up to a 15-day detention period and a fine of up to 5,000 yuan ($680).
When we look at the foundations of the new legislation, we find that they act as punishments. But retaliation is the actual issue. Evidently, concerns about Xi Jinping’s more authoritarian and nationalistic rule in China are developing among the general public as a result of his election to a third term as president.
Criticism of Xi Jinping
Several legal bloggers and professionals strongly advised eliminating certain articles from the draught in editorials or social media posts. The draught, according to China University law scholar Zhao Hong, lacked legal clarity and had the potential for misuse of public authority.
The newspaper’s online version of the piece was shortly removed. Through the websites, about 39,000 people drew attention to the draft’s unclear legal language.
Pressure is mounting on the administration, which is now resorting to overly tightening public security in response to mounting criticism of the government’s wasteful economic extravaganza that pretends to feed decolonized third world countries as well as growing discontent among the populace over the regimentation of Chinese society, including the restriction of civil liberties.
