China considers harsher law to crack down on terrorism

BEIJING -- Chinese lawmakers are mulling revising the Criminal Law to crack down more heavily on terrorism.

Several items are expected to be added to current terror-related stipulations. The draft amendment to the Criminal Law was submitted on Monday to the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC) for a first reading during the legislature's bi-monthly session, which runs from Monday to Saturday.

Those promoting terrorism and extremism by producing and distributing related materials, releasing information, instructing in person or through audio, video or information networks will face more than five years in prison in serious cases. Those who instigate violent terror activities will also face the same punishment, according to the draft amendment.

Those who instigate or force people to damage legal systems of marriage, justice, education and social management will be sentenced to more than seven years in prison in extremely serious cases, according to the draft.

The new items also include holding goods, books as well as audio and video materials that promote terrorism and extremism, and refusing to provide evidence about terrorism and extremism. Those convicted of such crimes will face less than three years in jail.

The draft amendment also increased stipulations on monetary punishment for those organizing, leading and participating in terrorist groups.