Public divided over abductee's wish for privacy

Gao takes care of students going home after school on May 13. [Photo/CFP]

Gao Yanmin, the woman who was abducted 21 years ago and deceived into marriage, has pleaded to be left alone, after her story ignited online controversy and demands from netizens that those who trafficked her be punished. Comments:

A severe crackdown on trafficking is and has been a publicly recognized police campaign, but it still requires sensitivity when dealing with individual cases. For Gao Yanmin, even though her life now is not what she expected two decades ago and she was even sold to her husband, it might not make her happier to bring the trafficker and the family that bought her to justice. Therefore, instead of hurling abuse via the Internet regardless of the victim's feelings, it is better to resort to stricter law enforcement, increase legal awareness among villagers and guard against trafficking to better prevent such cases in the future.

Scol.com.cn, July 30

Some media outlets have realized the possible hurt their reports may cause Gao and hence they have focused on her concerns and worries about the possibility that her family may be held legally accountable. Given that Gao was abducted from her real family and sold, it is beyond reproach that the public have condemned her traffickers and buyers. Nonetheless, the whole of society has the responsibility to provide her with open and firm support, and people should acknowledge and respect her choice.

Beijing Youth Daily, Aug 2

Online opinions about Gao's experience have divided people into two camps. One thinks Gao's personal choice should be respected and it is unreasonable to force Gao to give up her present life and family. The other thinks if Gao is not forcibly removed from her present situation and her traffickers and purchasers are not seriously punished, there will be other victims in the future.

The Paper, Aug 3