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Demolishing a system built on fear

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New regulations aimed at intimidatory tactics that force residents from homes

Violent protests and an escalation of complaints over the forced demolition of residential buildings have prompted authorities to toughen regulations and increase transparency.

From March 1, demolition firms and government authorities will face fines, demotions and possible criminal charges for evicting residents through intimidation or by cutting off power, water and gas supplies.

Under the new regulations, no company or individual is allowed to demolish residential buildings without first reaching agreement with property owners.

Mandatory demolition can be carried out only by housing management authorities, according to the new Ministry of Construction regulations .

The new measures follow a spate of incidents where protesters set fire to themselves or threatened to commit suicide to protest against insufficient or lack of compensation for forced removals.

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