Protecting Students' Rights: Balancing Discipline with Dignity
A highly publicized incident at Dalian University of Technology has highlighted the delicate balance between disciplinary measures and the protection of personal rights. The case involves a student, Li, who faces expulsion due to disciplinary actions, and the subsequent dissemination of her private videos and personal information online, which has sparked widespread debate. This incident underscores a critical discussion: while disciplinary measures are necessary for misconduct, the spread of private information and ensuing online harassment can lead to severe consequences that surpass reasonable boundaries of punishment.

13 July 2025
According to China's Civil Code, an individual's personal information is protected by law, and any organization or individual is prohibited from illegally collecting, using, processing, transmitting, or publicly disclosing such information. The release and virality of Li's private video and personal details not only violate legal stipulations but also raise essential questions about the appropriateness of the public's response to disciplinary actions within educational institutions. The educational sector and legal institutions must collaborate to establish a fair and supportive environment, guiding students to recognize and rectify their mistakes without subjecting them to uncontrollable online abuse.
The incident has sparked intense debate online, with opinions varying on the severity of Li's actions and the appropriateness of the university's punishment. However, there is widespread condemnation of the leaking and dissemination of Li's private video online, which is a clear invasion of her privacy rights. From a legal standpoint, the individual responsible for releasing the video can be held liable. The reckless dissemination of this private content and the exposure of Li's personal information exceed the reasonable consequences she should face for her actions.
Preventing further infringement of students' privacy and protecting their legitimate rights is not only a reflection of the legal spirit but also an essential duty of education. In handling misconduct, it is crucial to strike a balance between taking it seriously and avoiding secondary harm. The incident has sparked a heated debate among netizens, with a majority condemning the man who posted the video for violating the girl's right to privacy. Many argue that he should be held legally accountable for his actions, while others suggest that while the girl's behavior was inappropriate, she should not be publicly shamed or subjected to further harm.
This dichotomy in opinions reflects the complexities of balancing personal responsibility with the protection of individual rights in the digital age. Some emphasize the importance of respecting privacy and the potential long-term psychological effects of public shaming, while others see the public exposure as a form of deterrent against similar misconduct in the future. The discussion underscores the need for a nuanced approach to addressing behavioral issues, one that considers both the need for accountability and the protection of human dignity.
In conclusion, all parties involved should take corresponding measures to prevent further infringement on students' privacy and protect their legitimate rights. When dealing with misconduct, it is essential to handle the situation seriously while avoiding causing secondary harm to those involved. Rather than allowing them to become overwhelmed by online harassment, it is crucial to guide them towards recognizing their mistakes and correcting their behavior through appropriate means. By adopting a balanced and compassionate strategy, we can foster a more supportive and educational environment that encourages personal growth and accountability, rather than perpetuating a culture of shame and public condemnation.

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