China's army tests loyalty of civilian personnel

China has regulated background checks of civilian personnel working within the People's Liberation Army (PLA) to ensure absolute loyalty and reliability.

Those who have participated in or supported violence, terrorism or religious extremism will not be considered qualified for the service. Those convicted of criminal offences or who have been subject to administrative detention are also ineligible to serve, according to the PLA Daily, a military newsheet, on Thursday.

Also disqualified are those with close contact to overseas organizations, or persons with "complicated" political backgrounds.

The paper said that although civilian personnel are not on active duty, they shoulder great responsibilities. PLA officers cited in the article said civilians must be firm in faith and follow the lead of the Communist Party of China at all times, in all circumstances.

The regulation addresses the challenges brought about by an increasing number of army civilian personnel and their diverse backgrounds.

The regulation was drafted by the General Political Department of the PLA and the Ministry of Public Security. Enditem