Defying Chinese Nail House - how long will it last?
There is a courageous homeowner in Chongqing, China who is challenging the Chinese legal system and refusing to sell out in order make room for land developers. Wu Yang, 51, and his wife wanted an offer for their house of equivalent market value. Negotiations have reached a stalemate, and as a result, the developers have excavated a 10-metre deep pit around the house in the middle of a flattened construction pit, leaving the couple without water or electricity.
CBC article
China Daily article (more detailed)
“‘The coolest nail house in history’”
A local court had ordered the couple to clear out by Thursday (Mar. 22, 07). However, no action has been taken as the deadline passed by.
This story has gained international attention, making it harder on the Chinese government to enforce an eviction. The government has placed a media ban on this subject for all domestic print services and websites.
My take on this is that since the story has gained so much publicity, the Chinese government will not be making any rushed moves. The land developers and local government will eventually have to settle with Mr. Wu and his wife to agree on a more reasonable payout for their house.
This will be a test of the new law enshrining property rights.
*”Nail house” is a term used by developers to refer to homeowners who will not give up title to their property because they are like a nail that keeps poking through even though it’s knocked down with a hammer.
Reader's Comments
This is happening everywhere with the issues of imminent domain.
It’s a big issue in US right now with corporations involved.
Wow! That is crazy. I hope he gets his money. Great story - thanks for sharing.
M
Nice, add some water, a draw bridge, and you’ll have a modern day castle.
woo, everybody know this story now
great story… the government is trying to tax me off my land out here… Why can’t we just buy a place, take care of it and live on it forever without people digging giant holes around us?
Yes.. now we all want to know what will happen next.
You know, just the image alone is so powerful. I remember first reading about this story on another blog and being really moved by it. It’s always refreshing to me to see those willing to just flip the big finger to power because it needs to be done.
Great story! It’s a shame that government and corporations alike try to take advantage of ordinary people like that. I hope this will work out for that couple in the end.
Thanks for stopping by my blog!
Warmly,
Hueina
Intensive Care for the Nurturer’s Soul
wow. those are pretty gutsy people.
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