ICC Note:
A new judicial interpretation that was released Wednesday strengthens China’s power to crack down harder on “cults.” It means groups that are involved with proselytizing to children, to government or officials, or with links to foreign groups will be given harsh punishments. The new interpretation also says that cult members that “repent” of their cult activity may be allowed to avoid their punishment. This is a huge loss for members of all religions in China, as China regularly labels any religious group outside of the state-run religious institution as a cult. It also sets the stage for coerced recantations of faith. China is cracking down hard on religion and doing its best to stamp out house churches and churches that are not members of the state-run church called the Three Self Patriotic Movement.
1/26/2017 China (Reuters) – China will crack down further on what it calls “cults” with a new judicial interpretation released on Wednesday mandating harsh punishments for groups proselytising to government officials or children or linking up with foreign groups.
China’s officially atheist Communist Party does not tolerate challenges to its rule. It prizes social stability and religious activities must be state sanctioned.
Authorities have gone after what they view as cults, which have multiplied in recent years, and demonstrations have been put down with force and some sect leaders executed.
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