Public criticism has been triggered after new blood donation requirements were announced in China.

The new rules imposed in China’s northwestern and eastern parts have caused public backlash, reported China Daily. Health officials in Shaanxi Province said residents are required to donate blood at least one time. In return, they would receive marriage certificates or their licenses to drive.

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The health authorities in Baoji also added those who donate blood even once would also be allowed for university enrollment and government employment. Meanwhile, college students have already been asked to make blood donations along with military personnel annually.

Social media platforms have been overwhelmed with comments from netizens angered and puzzled with the new blood donation ruling.

A Weibo user said blood donation is a voluntary act and not mandatory. The user identified as 962464 also added that donating blood is a personal right.

Another user on Weibo named Maiqilin said high school students are minors and should not be required to donate blood. The user also said donating blood has nothing to do with getting a driver’s license and marriage certificate.

Baoji central blood station deputy director Li Shuanlin issued a response due to the growing public criticism on the new donation rules. The health official said the rules are still being carried out according to the blood donation law of the country. The health bureau of Baoji said the new rules are not mandatory and argued using their verified account on Weibo that these are proposals and not fixed.

Meanwhile, students in Zhejiang were awarded three bonus points for their entrance exam to senior high school after donating 4 liters to 8 liters of blood. This was a part of the new blood donation rules in Pujiang.
The health officials in the county said it would take years before they would be able to reach the minimum level for blood donation. They also said there are only very few eligible people for blood donation.

TagsShaanxi province, China Daily, Baoji, Zhejiang, Li Shuanlin, Baoji central blood station