The Chinese Communist Party is seeking to impose jail time on those convicted of “hurting the feelings of the Chinese nation.”
Under a proposed amendment, those found guilty of offending the national sensibilities via symbols, speech, demonstration or other means would be subject to a two-week stint in prison, according to reports.
“A detailed report chronicling the modifications and any revised drafts will eventually be presented for review to the Standing Committee, adhering to the established legal channels,” the National People’s Congress said of the law Monday.
Chinese President Xi Jinping walks to cast his vote during a session of China’s National People’s Congress to select state leaders at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, Friday. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)
The Chinese Communist Party and the National People’s Congress are attempting to quell public opposition to the amendment as it stands, assuring the Chinese polity that feedback is being considered before its final draft.
“We sincerely welcome public opinion on the draft law through normal channels. Those opinions are concrete manifestations of the masses’ concern and orderly participation in the national legislative work, which is of significant importance,” the National People’s Congress said.
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Chinese flag waves in front of the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. (REUTERS/Jason Lee)
The legislative body continued, “The legal affairs organs of the NPC Standing Committee will carefully sort out and study all kinds of opinions raised by the public and relevant parties on the solicited draft law, including opinions and suggestions on the provisions that have attracted attention, proposing proper handling.”
Critics accuse the amendment of being too vague in its definitions, granting even more unprecedented power with undefined guidelines in the hands of officials.
A man walks past a photo of Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Museum of the Communist Party of China in Beijing. (GREG BAKER/AFP via Getty Images)
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The amendment as draft outlines six types of violation that would “hurt the feelings” of the nation.
Transgressions would not be categorized as crimes — instead, the offenses would be considered violations.
