Lack of a mechanism to pursue justice breeds frustration among disadvantaged
A recent outbreak of unrest across the mainland has revealed the volatility of a society in which minor disputes can easily escalate into large, violent clashes.
Those caught up in the disputes - mostly farmers, workers and members of ethnic minorities - represent a wide spectrum of disadvantaged groups who are unable to voice their discontent and often resort to drastic action when their rights are violated.
'These incidents show that China is at a crossroads, where problems like those of farmers, laid-off workers and ethnic tension all blend together,' said Hu Xingdou , an expert in social justice issues. 'Either China will plunge into chaos, or there will be more reforms.'
He said the fact that a simple incident such as a car crash could trigger mass riots showed grievances were widespread and the disadvantaged could be easily provoked.
Two weeks ago, a fruit dealer's wife in Wanzhou, Chongqing , slapped the face of a delivery man when she was hit by a pole he was carrying. The argument eventually developed into a mass riot with local residents accusing police of abusing their authority, before looting government buildings and setting fire to a police car.