However, more than a decade later, the party has come to realise many have exploited this to make false accusations against officials.
Observers say unfounded claims about corruption waste resources, undermine careers, dampen morale and deter officials from taking decisive action as China faces economic challenges.
“This disrupts disciplinary inspection work, pollutes the political ecosystem, and hurts the feelings of reform-minded leaders,” said Zhuang Deshui, deputy director at Peking University’s public policy research centre.
“The aim is not to discourage genuine reporting but to create a positive atmosphere where individuals respect their own rights and report issues transparently, thereby protecting leaders,” Zhuang said.