Chinese Activist Detained for Tibetan Rights Support Amidst Separatism Allegation
Chinese student activist Zhang Yadi, known as Tara, has been detained for allegedly inciting separatism while visiting China from France. Her detention highlights China's sensitivity towards ethnic minority issues and the crackdown on separatism accusations. Zhang planned to study in London in September.
A Chinese student activist who has been vocal in support of Tibetan rights is under detention, reportedly for inciting separatism, according to friends and human rights organizations.
Zhang Yadi, also referred to as Tara, disappeared in July in Yunnan province. Human Rights Watch claims she is currently held in Changsha, Hunan. Friends and family have had no communication with her. A formal detention notice was reportedly issued, charging her with 'inciting separatism,' which can carry up to a 15-year prison sentence.
Rights groups point out this charge is often leveled at ethnic minorities, though Zhang is one of the rare members of the Han Chinese majority to face such accusations. Such measures coincide with China's broader efforts to suppress perceived separatist movements, especially among Tibetans and Uyghurs. Zhang's international activist network remains concerned about her situation.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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