Beijing gets tough on noisy, dancing grannies
Fines and detentions to be handed out to people dancing in public areas - often middle-aged and elderly women - found to have created a public nuisance
People in Beijing who square dance to loud music in public places could soon face stiff penalties under a new rule that takes effect from March.
The capital’s revised regulations on national fitness, which were approved last month, stipulate that outdoor exercises organised by groups or individuals should not disturb public order or affect others’ work and living conditions.
People who violate the rule face warnings, fines and detention, according to the Beijing municipal government. It has yet to provide details about the amount of fines or length of detention offenders could face.
Square dancing - a popular outdoor activity among middle-aged and elderly Chinese people, especially women - has in recent years sparked heated debate in China.
Its critics have complained about the loud music when the dancers gather at public squares in cities across the country.