In an unexpected turn of events, Halloween festivities in Shanghai were met with a significant police response over the weekend, sparking criticism and concern among the public about the government's stance on freedom of expression. Witnesses reported heavy police presence, including barriers and patrols, aimed at controlling crowds of costumed party-goers. Although there was no official prohibition on celebrating Halloween, rumors of a potential crackdown had been circulating since early October, a reminder of the previous year's viral costumes that poked fun at the Chinese government.
This year's revellers, many dressed as comic book characters like Batman and Deadpool, were increasingly confronted by law enforcement who began dispersing gatherings, particularly in popular locales such as Zhongshan Park. Eyewitness accounts indicated that the police seemed to outnumber the celebrators, with reports of attendees being asked to remove costumes and makeup, and some even reported being forced into police vans. Frustrated residents spoke out against the heavy-handedness of the situation, with sentiments of once-tolerant Shanghai being overshadowed by authoritarian measures.
Further stoking fears among citizens, certain businesses received informal notifications to refrain from hosting Halloween-related events, while universities cautioned students against participating in large gatherings. For instance, students at Fudan University faced scrutiny regarding their attendance at public events, underscoring an atmosphere of restraint reminiscent of previous governmental crackdowns on festive expressions.
This latest police action comes after the White Paper Protests, which saw citizens rally in 2022 against strict pandemic regulations. As the Halloween weekend drew to a close, many revelers were left disappointed, highlighting the ongoing tension between government regulations and the public's desire for self-expression in Shanghai.
As authorities remain tight-lipped on the matter, the festive spirit of Halloween stands in stark contrast with underlying fears about the limitations imposed on public gatherings in China.
This year's revellers, many dressed as comic book characters like Batman and Deadpool, were increasingly confronted by law enforcement who began dispersing gatherings, particularly in popular locales such as Zhongshan Park. Eyewitness accounts indicated that the police seemed to outnumber the celebrators, with reports of attendees being asked to remove costumes and makeup, and some even reported being forced into police vans. Frustrated residents spoke out against the heavy-handedness of the situation, with sentiments of once-tolerant Shanghai being overshadowed by authoritarian measures.
Further stoking fears among citizens, certain businesses received informal notifications to refrain from hosting Halloween-related events, while universities cautioned students against participating in large gatherings. For instance, students at Fudan University faced scrutiny regarding their attendance at public events, underscoring an atmosphere of restraint reminiscent of previous governmental crackdowns on festive expressions.
This latest police action comes after the White Paper Protests, which saw citizens rally in 2022 against strict pandemic regulations. As the Halloween weekend drew to a close, many revelers were left disappointed, highlighting the ongoing tension between government regulations and the public's desire for self-expression in Shanghai.
As authorities remain tight-lipped on the matter, the festive spirit of Halloween stands in stark contrast with underlying fears about the limitations imposed on public gatherings in China.
