The Internet Is Not a Lawless Zone: China Stresses the Need to Crack Down on Online Violence

A tragic incident in Zhoukou, Henan, has sparked a nationwide discussion on the dangers of online violence. A gynecologist, reportedly unable to withstand the relentless harassment from online trolls, tragically fell to her death. According to her family, the online abuse stemmed from three separate medical disputes. Authorities have since formed an investigation team to look into the matter and determine the responsibility of each party involved.

From the leaked suicide note and records on social media platforms, it is evident that the doctor had been subjected to sustained online harassment and abuse. The platforms have confirmed that they had previously removed videos and comments that attacked the hospital and its staff. After the incident went viral, many netizens expressed their grief and raised questions about why such a tragedy occurred in the first place.

Medical disputes are a common and complex issue in society, often involving specialized knowledge and facts. There are established channels for resolving such conflicts, and both parties should legally protect their rights. However, no one should engage in spreading false information, inciting online violence, or using the incident to gain views and attention. Non-rational comments and groupthink can rapidly escalate the situation, turning public exposure into online violence.

Online violence is a serious problem that cannot be ignored. With the sheer volume of information on the internet, individuals often find themselves powerless against the overwhelming noise. China has already taken steps to address this issue through legal frameworks such as the Civil Code and the Regulations on the Governance of Online Violence Information. In recent years, the Cyberspace Administration of China has intensified its efforts to regulate and punish such behavior.

To prevent similar tragedies, it is crucial to shift the focus of governance from post-incident punishment to pre-emptive prevention and conflict resolution. This includes collaboration between the police, cyberspace administration, and internet platforms to identify early warning signs and intervene promptly. Mediation and other mechanisms should be used to resolve conflicts before they escalate. Additionally, emotional and psychological support should be provided to victims of online violence, and medical institutions should ensure that proper complaint and mediation procedures are in place to resolve disputes legally.

The internet is not a place where the law does not apply. Online violence must be punished severely. When the truth is unclear, individuals should exercise more rationality and caution, avoiding the unintentional harm that can come from a single click. Everyone has a responsibility to ensure that the internet remains a space of respect and dignity.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for a more comprehensive and proactive approach to addressing online violence. Only through collective effort and legal enforcement can such tragedies be prevented in the future.