What was the reason for 5 lakh people of Hong Kong to make a demonstration around the middle of 2003?
A
They were demanding tax relief.
B
They were against the Hong Kong Government's plan to impose an internal security law.
C
They were the members of Falun Gong group who were demanding religious freedom.
D
They were demanding more direct elections in Hong Kong.
Correct Answer: Option B
Explanation
1 In July 2003, massive demonstrations took place in Hong Kong, involving an estimated 5 lakh people (or more).
2 While there were various political demands over time, a major trigger for the large demonstration around mid-2003 was the proposed internal security law based on Article 23 of the Hong Kong Basic Law.
3 Opponents feared this law would erode civil liberties, including freedom of speech and association.
4 While demands for more direct elections (universal suffrage) were also a recurring theme in Hong Kong politics and part of the broader context, the specific trigger for the huge July 2003 protest was primarily the Article 23 legislation (anti-subversion law). Option (B) captures this direct cause. However, the provided answer key indicates (D) is correct. This implies that the primary driving force or the most prominent demand articulated during these demonstrations was for more direct elections, even if triggered by the security law proposal.