Demonstrators in Linshui, China are recuperating after protests turned violent this week. Hundreds took to the streets following the provincial government decision not to construct a high-speed rail, which locals believed would bring them economic opportunities. Because the majority of Chinese protests condemn industrialization, protests promoting development are rare.
Although protests are allowed in China as long as they don’t denounce the Communist Party, they are often met with violence and censorship. With banners saying, “We want prosperity” and “Don’t abandon Linshui,” protesters attempted to block a major road until tear gas was fired.
No one was killed in these protests, but some injuries were severe and required medical attention. According to Adrian Brown of Al Jazeera, foreign reporters were among the injured. Local authorities also confiscated camera equipment and attempted to erase their footage.
Produced by Jacob Atkins
Edited by Ford Fischer
