Chinese city bans protest marches, gatherings

China, Sep 4: Unlicensed marches, demonstrations and mass protests were banned in Urumqi City situated in the far west of China, from Friday, Sep 4 through a five-article announcement, reported a government spokesperson.

He added the decision was taken after thousands of people took to streets on Thursday, Sep 4, to protest against the attacks in the city.

"The leaflet is meant to safeguard public order, and protect the lives of the public and guarantee property safety," said the spokesman.

From now on permission needs to be procured from public security department before gatherings, marches or protests on roads or other public venues in the open-air are held.

Moreover, weapons like knives, explosives, or violence and disturbances at such events, said the spokesman.

The public security department would disperse those gathered, and detain in case of violation. The court would hand down severe punishment in case of violation.

OneIndia News