Public anger has erupted in China following the circulation of a disturbing video showing the brutal bullying of a student in Jiangyou, Sichuan province. The footage, which went viral on social media, has ignited nationwide protests demanding stronger measures to protect children in schools.
Outrage Over Viral Bullying Incident
The video, which surfaced earlier this week, shows a group of students physically assaulting a younger pupil while others watch. The incident reportedly took place at a middle school in Jiangyou, though authorities have not confirmed the exact location.
Local education officials have launched an investigation, but protesters argue this is just the latest in a series of similar cases that highlight systemic failures in China's education system.
Protests Spread Across Cities
Demonstrations have now spread to multiple cities, with parents and activists calling for:
- Stricter anti-bullying policies in schools
- Better training for teachers to identify and prevent abuse
- Stronger legal consequences for perpetrators
- More transparent reporting systems for parents
In Jiangyou, hundreds gathered outside government buildings holding signs reading "Protect Our Children" and "No More Silence." Similar scenes were reported in at least five other provincial capitals.
Government Response Under Scrutiny
Education Ministry spokesperson Wang Hui stated that "bullying has no place in our schools" and promised "swift action" in the Jiangyou case. However, critics argue that previous promises of reform have led to little substantive change.
Child protection advocates point to China's highly competitive education system as contributing to the problem, where academic performance often takes precedence over student wellbeing.
As the protests continue, all eyes remain on how authorities will respond to this latest crisis in China's education sector.
