Remember the good old pre-Covid days where we could travel freely without masks, social distancing or the slightest of worry in getting infected by something deadly? Travelling was indeed a fun escapade for many. For some, it might be the food and the genuine interest to learn something new that draws them to travelling. However, for many others, their motivation factor to go on overseas trips are the memorable pictures that could be uploaded on social media — resulting in thousands of likes and positive comments.
Well, just recently, a travel blogger, named “Xiaoxian Jayson”, was “permanently banned” by the Chinese social media platform, Toutiao. His violation was, posting a blog involving a “misconduct that disrespect martyrs”.
This violation came to light after a seemingly harmless post by the blogger became viral. Apparently, he was posing next to the tombstone of Chinese martyrs who died in the Galwan Valley Border clash! Hence, that’s why his post was chided for showing no respect to the fallen heroes. Now, this blogger is at the risk of being put on a travel blacklist. According to the popular social media platform, they have contacted the tourism department and suggested that the blogger be put on a travel blacklist.
“Toutiao will continue to crack down on inappropriate content and has zero-tolerance for those who do not respect martyrs. We hope that creators can strictly abide by the rules of the platform,” the platform announced in a statement on Sunday. The uproar occurred when another blogger, @Taiwan Nadianshi found the photos on Sunday morning, and commented, “The tombstone of the heroes defending our country and guarding the border is not a place for you to pose. Please show some respect for martyrs.”
Taking a closer look at the photos, it could be seen that the travel blogger seems to be posing next to the tomb of Chen Xiangrong, who sacrificed his life at the Galwan Valley border clash, while in another photo, the blogger leans against a monument marking the Kangwaxi Martyrs Cemetery. This historical cemetery is located in the Karakorum Mountains, Northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, 4,280 meters above sea level and is the resting place for martyrs who sacrificed their lives guarding the border. The other tombstones include those of, Chen Hongjun, Chen Xiangrong, Xiao Siyuan, and Wang Zhuoran.
Prior to this, the Central Military Commission issued commendations in February this year, to the servicemen for their role in bravely fighting back provocations by foreign forces at the Galwan Valley — conferring the title of “border-defending hero” on Battalion Commander Chen Hongjun. On the other hand, Chen Xiangrong, Xiao Siyuan and Wang Zhuoran received first-class merits.
Hopefully, this would serve as a kind reminder for future tourists to be extremely mindful of their postings on social media. This is to prevent any groups from being offended or hurt by the photos.
Source: Global Times
