Local governments in China are cracking down on folk religion by banning the burning of spirit money and other offerings during the Hungry Ghost Festival. The government of Yongren county in Yunnan province called the practice "uncivilized" and urged people to break old habits. Some local officials have even encouraged digital offerings as a more civilized alternative. The move is part of a broader campaign by the ruling Chinese Communist Party to encourage cremation and discourage elaborate burials. The crackdown on religious practices is seen as an effort to promote the party's political agenda and "sinicization" program.

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