China suspended thousands of social media accounts that criticized the regime for its handling of the COVID-19 outbreak

China Suspended or closed accounts Social media More than 1,000 critics of the regime’s policies regarding the latest outbreak COVID-19The country is continuously taking steps towards opening up.

Popular site China Weibo It said it has addressed 12,854 violations, including attacks on professionals, academics and healthcare workers, and suspended or permanently banned 1,120 accounts.

Governor Commonwealth Party He relied heavily on the medical community to justify his harshness Blockages, quarantines and massive trials. Almost all restrictions were lifted suddenly last month, causing a spike in cases that strained medical resources. The party does not allow direct criticism and strictly controls it Freedom of expression.

The social media platform said in a statement dated Thursday that it will “continue to increase its investigation and cleanup of all types of illegal content, and create a harmonious and friendly social environment for the majority of users.”

Criticism has mainly focused on the heavy hand with which the rules have been applied, including indefinite travel restrictions that have kept people confined to their homes for weeks, sometimes without food or adequate medical care. Also irritating is the demand that anyone who may test positive or who has come in contact with an infected person be admitted to a field hospital for observation, where overcrowding, poor nutrition and unsanitary conditions are common.

The social and economic cost of China’s draconian code eventually led to extraordinary street protests Beijing And in other cities, it could influence the party’s decision to quickly ease tough measures.

As part of the latest changes, China will also stop filing criminal charges against those accused of violating border quarantine rules, five government departments said in a statement on Saturday.

Due to this, those detained will be released and the seized property will be returned to them.

“These changes have been made after fully considering the damage of the behaviors to society, and adapted to the new circumstances of preventing and controlling the epidemic,” the website of the official newspaper said. China Daily In information about notification.

Infections and hospitalizations are on the rise in China’s major cities. Lunar New Year In the coming days. Even with fewer international flights, officials expect domestic travel by rail and air to double from last year, approaching data for the last 2019 holidays before the pandemic.

The Transport Ministry on Friday asked commuters to minimize travel and gatherings, especially if they are going to meet the elderly, pregnant women, young children and those with pre-existing illnesses.

Also, the deputy minister said that the public transport users have been asked to wear masks and pay special attention to hygiene and personal hygiene. Xu Chengguang To reporters at a press conference.

Nevertheless, the country is moving forward with plans to lift mandatory quarantine for those arriving from abroad as of Sunday.

(With information from AP)

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