China Considers Putting Ban On Clothing That Hurts National Sentiments

China is considering a new law to ban clothes that could offend their sentiments. The proposal, introduced by the National People’s Congress, suggests that individuals could be punished who “produce, disseminate, publicize and spread items or speeches that damage the Chinese nation’s spirit and hurt the Chinese nation’s feelings.” As per The Telegraph report, those found violating this law might face up to 15 days in jail and a fine of 5,000 yuan (approximately Rs 60,000). The proposal comes after police in Suzhou, near Shanghai, detained a woman for wearing a Japanese kimono. In another case, students at Tsinghua University faced trouble for wearing rainbow shirts and distributing LGBTQ flags.

As per the portal, locals are criticising the law, as they are worried about how it might impact people’s freedom. Lao Dongyan, a professor of law at Tsinghua University, who is against the law, stated, “The regulation could also stimulate the spread of populism and ultra-nationalism, further deteriorating the public opinion environment, and may also intensify oppositional sentiments in some countries.”

Professor Tong Zhiwei from East China University of Political Science and Law has raised concerns about the new law on Chinese social media, Weibo. He questioned, “Who will confirm the spirit of the Chinese nation, and by what procedures?” The professor warned that if the law gets approved, police will be able to arrest people based on unclear guidelines, which could lead to serious problems. Another user wondered if people who take part in cosplay or employees at Japanese restaurants wearing kimonos might be affected by these rules. The individual suggested that the law should clearly specify which symbols and clothing are prohibited and which are allowed.

While Chinese authorities are yet to clarify which specific clothing items will be banned, similar restrictions are common in other countries as well. For example, many Middle Eastern countries require women to cover their heads or faces in public. In Uganda, women are not allowed to wear dresses that are above the knee. Croatia and the Maldives have advised tourists to not wear revealing swimwear outside beach areas, and Greece has banned high heels at historic sites.