A recent Internet report that a public cemetery for revolutionary martyrs was opened for business purposes in Luoyang, a city in central Henan Province, has aroused controversy.

The China Daily said the discussions surrounding the case demonstrate that the worldwide Web has become an important platform through which to express public opinion. It is playing an increasing role in shaping public discourse that should not be ignored.

The Internet will no doubt strengthen the rule of law over the long term. It has already become an important tool for checking the abuse of power and other irregularities.

The paper says government bodies should consider themselves fortunate to have such access to the public voice, so they can improve their work and identify their weak points.

The report says fair play guaranteed by effective rules is important. Both the central and local governments are obligated to make sure Internet portals observe the rules when it comes to managing bulletin boards, so abusive behavior is minimized and the free expression of opinions continues without fear or favor.