Volunteer Rescuers Banned as China Seeks to Hide True Death Toll and Official Incompetence

In Jiangsu, China, 12 grassroots civic organizations, including volunteer emergency rescue teams, were banned for operating without state registration. Human rights observers suggest this move is intended to maintain state control over information regarding the severity, death tolls, and impact of natural disasters. The ban affects groups providing relief during emergencies.

• 12 grassroots civic organizations in Jiangsu province, China, have been banned.
• Seven of the banned groups were volunteer emergency rescue teams.
• Other banned groups included house churches, clan associations, and charitable volunteer groups.
• The official reason for the ban is operating without state registration.
• Critics argue the ban is a deliberate effort to control information about natural disasters, including their severity and death tolls.