Chinese Twitter alternative Sina Weibo removes 'star power list' amid backlash

China’s Twitter-like social media platform, Sina Weibo reportedly said on Friday that it is removing an online listing that ranks celebrities by ir level of popularity.

Weibo’s announcement came after Chinese state media reported that social media platforms should curb promotion of celebrity culture in a bid to safeguard children in country. Previously, an opinion piece at  People’s Daily h criticised social media platforms for prioritising traffic and building celebrities out of “unworthy” individuals. op-ed in Chinese Communist Party's mouthpiece said that such individuals on social media can grab a fan base and money.

Even though op-ed did not mention any name, Weibo h published a ‘star power list’ in which it h ranked celebrities based on ir popularity with regards to engagement on respective social posts and number of followers. An editorial column in state-owned People’s Daily h called out to platforms after Weibo list was published. editorial h suggested that online platforms should “strictly control idol development programmes and strengn management of talent show programmes" by restricting reviews, comments and voting.

" list cannot comprehensively and objectively reflect social influence of stars," Weibo said in a statement ding this furr creates a barrier in people having a healthy communication between ‘stars’ and ir followers for fans. 

Several editorials published against social platforms

People’s Daily opinion piece was one of several editorials published this week urging crackdowns on industries including gaming and alcohol.

As per reports, such editorials in China have triggered investors to dump stocks in targeted sectors. article h also argued that cultural experience, self-awareness and or consumption habits of teenagers in country were all influenced by latest media and technology. It stated that of celebrities young ults followed were usually followed and mired on social media platforms. 

editorials and scrutiny clouding Chinese social media platforms came after Chinese-Canian pop singer Kris Wu was detained by police on allegations of seducing underage women. However, Wu has denied accusation. His case has seen wide followership in China and is also being seen as a sign of excess in country's entertainment industry. 

(IMAGE: Representative)