In a new push against what it defines as “xie jiao” or heterodox teachings, the Lhasa Public Security Bureau has recently intensified efforts to crack down on these groups by incentivizing the public to report suspected activities. The term “xie jiao,” historically used to slander religious movements as cults, is now being employed by Chinese authorities to label any religious or spiritual group that does not align with the government’s official stance.
According to a report by Bitter Winter, a document issued by the Lhasa Public Security Bureau on April 4, 2024, outlines a detailed plan to encourage local residents to report any activities or individuals associated with “xie jiao.” The authorities have promised monetary rewards for information leading to arrests or disruption of these groups, indicating a significant ramp-up in surveillance and control measures over spiritual movements in the region.
The document details several types of activities that are considered reportable offenses, including illegal gatherings, financial transactions related to “xie jiao,” and the dissemination of their teachings, especially if aimed at minors or within educational settings. Moreover, it covers the promotion of these teachings through modern communication channels and social media platforms such as WeChat, Douyin, and Weibo.
Authorities have defined “xie jiao” broadly, potentially encompassing any non-sanctioned spiritual practices, including those linked to recognized figures like the Dalai Lama, whom many Tibetans regard as their spiritual leader despite Chinese opposition. The document’s release has raised concerns about the potential misuse of these regulations to further suppress legitimate religious and cultural expressions within Tibet, an area already heavily monitored and restricted by the Chinese government.
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The Lhasa Public Security Bureau has outlined specific rewards for reports that lead to actionable intelligence or direct interventions. Rewards range from RMB 100 to RMB 30,000, depending on the significance and impact of the information provided. This system not only encourages public participation in the surveillance network but also places a monetary value on information that could lead to significant intrusions into the private religious practices of individuals.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy by the Chinese government to assimilate Tibet culturally and religiously, often at the expense of the region’s indigenous traditions and practices. The increasing use of surveillance technologies and the incentivization of public reports reflect a deepening approach to governance that prioritizes control over cultural preservation and personal freedom.
Reports from Bitter Winter highlight the severity of the situation, where even small-scale religious activities can be targeted under these new measures, further tightening the constraints on religious freedom in Tibet. This policy also echoes wider concerns about the Chinese government’s approach to managing religious affairs across the country, which often involves a heavy-handed blend of technology, law enforcement, and incentives for compliance.
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