In 1954, the government introduced National Service, which required all males aged between 18 and 20 to register for part time military service. Offenders who failed to register would be jailed or fined . National Service was not popular with secondary students from Chinese schools. The influence of the communists in Chinese schools had stirred up anti-British feelings among the students. The students were not willing to defend a foreign government which ignored the Chinese students’ interests. Very few students from Chung Cheng High School and Chinese High school turned up on the first day of registration. On 13 May 1954, more than one thousand students gathered in front of the Government House to present their petition to the Governor. Soon, the peaceful demonstration turned violent when the police were called in to disperse the crowd. About 26 people were injured and 48 students were arrested.
When And How Did It Happen
In May 1954, students from Chung Cheng High School held a demonstration to protest against National Service. On May 13, 500 students created havoc in the streets, while another 1,000 students locked themselves in Chung Cheng High School. Over 20 students were injured and 48 were arrested by the police.
What Happened After The Riots?
Cars were overturned and burnt. Serious rioting continues for three days and a curfew was imposed for two weeks. Troops were called in to maintain law and order. By the third day, situation was under control. About 18 people were killed and 173 were injured during the riots. The colonial government agreed to postpone National Service.
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