China is undergoing great changes, moving forward to a modern society ruled by law. Under these circumstances, petitioners like Qu should be able to defend their legal rights by employing legal methods rather than resorting to violence. Extreme acts are not permitted in any case, but governmental credibility needs to be enhanced.

China's petition system once served as a helpful bridge between the government and the people. It was not intended as a major system to resolve disputes.

Originally, the petition system acted only as a channel to gather popular information. Then the authorities handling these complaints would demand relevant departments deal with specific problems.

The past years have witnessed an increase of conflicts, some of which cannot be addressed merely through legal means such as litigation and administrative reconsideration.

The petition system itself is nothing wrong. Petitioners like Qu should rationally protect their rights by resorting to the law. The system should remain as a means to reflect public opinion. Relevant authorities should confront the problems reflected by petitions.

However, the fact is they often refuse to handle these problems because they are not willing to admit their mistakes.

Why are there more conflicts between officials and civilians in recent years? I think the answer lies in the declining credibility of the government. And the negative attitude of the government to petitioners and the public's suspicions and anger caused by these cases are other reasons.

When the public interests are violated, sometimes people cannot receive fair treatment. But the public is not in a natural confrontation with the government.

To change this scenario, I suggest that our government expose affairs in a comprehensive and open manner. Moreover, the government should face up to mistakes and correct them in time. Pressure from the public can be transformed to help push the government for better performance.

This article was compiled by Global Times reporter Yu Qian based on an interview with Xu Yinhua, associate professor of Zhongnan University of Economics and Law in Wuhan, and deputy director of the university's Institute for China Petition and Social Stability. opinion@globaltimes.com.cn