China’s first local anti-extremism law came into effect on Saturday in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, a northwestern province that has long suffered from terrorism and separatist movements.

The law aims at cracking down on and stamping out extremism in the region.

The law, which was passed by the Standing Committee of Xinjiang People's Congress on Thursday, consists of seven chapters and provides a clear definition of extremism.

Fifteen behaviors now fall under the umbrella of extremism, including interfering with the religious freedom of others, forcing others to participate in religious activities, driving believers of different religions away from their homes, expanding the concept of "halal" to areas other than food, wearing or forcing others to wear burqa-like robes (full-face veil), marrying or divorcing through religious channels rather than legal processes, and depriving children of their right to national education.

The law also elaborates on methods to prevent, contain and eliminate extremism.

It details the responsibilities of the government, relevant departments and social groups, as well as the legal liability for those who break the law.

Punishment depends on the severity of the action, and can range from on-spot education for minor offences to criminal liability for serious ones.

Nayim Yessen, Director of the Standing Commitee of the regional legislature, emphasized the great significance of this regulation, saying it would provide strong support for promoting anti-extremism work.

Nayim also urged the local law-enforcement agencies in the region to formulate specific rules and measures in accordance to the law and implement them without delay.