It is true that the social space that has been opened up is a carefully managed one, subject to numerous direct and indirect means of state control. The problem with such a controlled experiment in ordering social space is the contradictions it generates in the long run. The primary challenge facing the Chinese leadership will be to balance its phobic distrust of an erosion of its political supremacy with the compelling need to concede an increased sphere of public autonomy. This is not only a delicate balancing act but also a dangerous one with long term implications for political legitimacy and even survival. The ghosts of Tiananmen could yet return to haunt the country and the dilemma before the Chinese state is no easy one.

The writer is associate professor, Centre for Policy Research, New Delhi