Shanghai Subway Authorities: "Incident Under Investigation"
An absurd incident occurred on a subway in China, where an elderly man forcibly sat on a female passenger's lap.
According to local media such as Sina News on the 3rd, the incident took place last month during the evening rush hour on Line 9 of the Shanghai subway. The elderly man, dressed in a blue top, suddenly demanded that a young woman, who was seated, give up her seat for him.
When the woman firmly refused, the man immediately climbed onto her lap and sat down. He then exhibited bizarre behavior by leaning back and resting against her while holding onto the handrail with both hands.
Both the woman and a male passenger sitting next to her expressed extreme discomfort, but the elderly man was unfazed. The male passenger, unable to tolerate the situation any longer, tried to push the man off, but it was to no avail. Instead, the elderly man smiled and pressed his body even closer.
Refused to Move Despite Other Passengers' Offers... Eventually Forcibly Removed
Another passenger, observing the situation, tried to mediate by offering his seat, but the elderly man refused that offer as well. Eventually, the outraged woman reported the incident to the police, and subway police forcibly removed the man at the next station.
The Shanghai subway authorities stated, "The relevant department is investigating the incident after receiving the report, and an official statement will be issued once the results are confirmed." However, the Shanghai police responded, "We cannot participate in interviews."
The incident sparked significant public outrage online in China. Netizens strongly criticized the elderly man, saying, "Age is not a free pass," "He should be sued for sexual harassment," and "He should be banned from riding the subway."
"Constitutes Forcible Molestation and Disorderly Conduct"
Chinese legal experts pointed out that the elderly man's actions could be subject to criminal penalties. Fu Jian, an attorney at a law firm in Henan Province, explained, "Touching the victim's body without her consent is highly likely to be considered forcible molestation," adding, "According to the Public Security Administration Punishments Law, anyone who molests others or deliberately attempts physical contact in a public place can be detained for 5 to 10 days." He further stated, "If the act constitutes disorderly conduct that disrupts public order, detention for up to 15 days and a fine of 2,000 yuan (approximately 410,000 won) may also be imposed."
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