The China Beijing would like the world to see is one of measured modernisation. Thus, when the president of the country, Hu Jintao, is whisked away from international obligations (at the G-8 meet in Italy) to settle domestic woes, the alarm bells start ringing and begin the process of damage control. The past four days have seen the western Chinese province of Xinjiang in turmoil.

It is believed that clashes have

resulted in more than 150 deaths and thousands have been injured as the riot police attempt to keep the Uighur minority and Han majority at bay in Urumqui.

Grievances from the Uighurs are not uncommon. Beijing, in an outreach to its minorities, has systematically begun rapid modernisation of minority towns. This trend, initially started in Tibet, has taken form

in Mongolia and Xinjiang. The Uighurs of Xinjiang allege that far from allowing them to reap the benefits of modernisation the government has encouraged Han migration to Xinjiang. This, they say, has resulted in the Han’s further eminence, through better-paid jobs and preferential treatment. In any case, there is increased competition for jobs and resources. Thus, the slightest push and the two people are up in arms.

The fact that the Chinese quell dissent should come as no surprise. Last year, the Tibetans made headlines and an embarrassed Beijing once again tried to cover up genuine grievances. This time is no different. Rows of riot police have taken to the streets and press reports indicate the capital of Xinjiang is under marital law in all but name. The issue lies in Beijing’s conception of what damage control is. It has never acknowledged

... contd.