Stocking up on provisions a natural precaution

People ride on a road in Zhengzhou, Central China's Henan province, Jan 22, 2016. Henan saw its first snowfall this year on Friday.[Photo/Xinhua]

THE FREEZING CONDITIONS that have gripped most parts of China over the weekend, have prompted many residents to hoard daily necessities including vegetables and cooking oil. Gmw.cn says it is sensible for residents to prepare for the worst:

As the temperature approaches record lows in some southern provinces where it rarely snows, and the National Meteorological Center has issued several yellow alerts for the cold weather, blizzards and gales, it is understandable that some residents have chosen to stock up on food and other necessities.

This is not selfish or mindless hoarding as some have suggested but a natural result of worries that the cold weather might lead to the prices of many foods rising. Those stocking up on provisions are only hoping to save money and ensure they have enough food, which deserves no demonization.

Unfortunately, a large number of Internet users have pointed accusing fingers and criticized such behavior. It is similar to the popular stigma attached to damas, middle-aged and elderly women who are often ridiculed as "rich yet rude" overseas shoppers.

Residents are allowed to buy as much food as they want, as long as there is no law rationing food supplies. Such being the case, those trying to claim the moral high ground have no ground to stand on.